How To Fix Oakley Sunglasses Arms

How to Fix Oakley Sunglasses Arms: A Comprehensive Guide

Oakley sunglasses are known for their durability and performance, but even the toughest eyewear can experience damage. A common issue is a broken or loose arm. Luckily, many fixes are simple and can be done at home. This guide will walk you through various methods to repair your Oakley sunglasses arms, saving you time and money.

Identifying the Problem: What's Wrong with Your Oakley Arms?

Before attempting any repair, accurately diagnose the problem. Is the arm:

• Loose?: The screw holding the arm might be loose or missing.
• Broken?: The arm itself may be cracked or snapped.
• Detached?: The arm may have completely come off the frame.

Knowing the specific issue will guide you toward the appropriate solution.

Tools You Might Need:

Depending on the type of repair, you'll need some basic tools:

• Small Screwdriver: A precision screwdriver is ideal for Oakley sunglasses. The size needed will vary depending on your model.
• Pliers (optional): Useful for gripping small parts.
• Super Glue or Epoxy (optional): For more significant repairs, like cracked arms.
• Replacement Screws (optional): If the original screws are stripped or missing. These can sometimes be found at eyewear repair shops or online retailers selling Oakley parts (though it's always best to contact Oakley directly for genuine parts).

Simple Fixes: Tightening Loose Screws

This is the most common repair for loose Oakley arms.

Steps:

1. Locate the Screws: Carefully examine the hinge connecting the arm to the frame. You'll find tiny screws holding the arm in place.
2. Tighten the Screws: Use the appropriate screwdriver to gently tighten the screws. Avoid over-tightening, which could strip the screw or damage the frame. Turn the screw clockwise to tighten.
3. Test the Repair: Gently wiggle the arm to ensure it's securely fastened.

More Advanced Repairs: Dealing with Broken or Detached Arms

If tightening screws doesn't solve the problem, the arm may be more seriously damaged.

Broken Arm Repair (Minor Cracks):

For minor cracks, strong adhesive like super glue or epoxy can be effective:

1. Clean the Area: Thoroughly clean and dry the broken surfaces.
2. Apply Adhesive: Apply a small amount of adhesive to the broken surfaces.
3. Clamp or Secure: Carefully hold the pieces together and use a clamp or tape to secure them while the adhesive sets. Allow sufficient drying time as specified by the adhesive manufacturer.
4. Test the Repair: Once the adhesive is fully cured, gently test the repaired arm.

Important Note: This method is only suitable for minor cracks. If the arm is severely broken, replacement is the best option. It is very unlikely that a severely broken arm can be successfully fixed with adhesive, leading to instability and potential for further damage.

Detached Arm Repair:

If the arm has completely detached, the hinge might be broken or the screw is missing.

1. Inspect the Hinge: Examine the hinge mechanism for any damage.
2. Attempt to Reattach: If the hinge appears intact, try reattaching the arm and securing it with a suitable screw (if one is available).
3. Professional Repair: If the hinge is damaged, professional repair is recommended. Attempting repairs without proper tools and expertise might worsen the damage.

Preventing Future Damage:

• Proper Cleaning and Storage: Clean your sunglasses regularly with a soft cloth and store them in a protective case when not in use.
• Careful Handling: Avoid bending or dropping your Oakley sunglasses.
• Regular Inspection: Periodically check the screws to make sure they are tight.

When to Seek Professional Help:

If you're uncomfortable performing the repair yourself, or if the damage is extensive, it's best to take your Oakley sunglasses to a professional optician or eyewear repair specialist. They have the tools and expertise to perform a proper repair.

By following these steps, you can often fix your Oakley sunglasses arms yourself, extending the life of your favorite eyewear. Remember that attempting repairs beyond your skill level can cause further damage, so don't hesitate to seek professional help when needed.