S and S Couplers

I got some good experience with the S and S coupler system this weekend.  These things seem like they've been around forever but this is the first time I've actually used them.  There isn't that much to them but I always enjoy learning new stuff so I'm glad to finally work with them.  The hardest part for me is getting that little spring-like retainer ring on and off.  I didn't even shoot a picture of it but I'll try to get one here shortly.  Everything else just boils down to a couple of precise measurements and cleanup work.  There is actually an extra tube shown here because when I placed the original order I ordered a 1 3/8" for the down tube and a 1 1/8" for the top. I forgot that I was using a 1 1/4" top tube on this frame, so I ended up with an extra to practice with.  I'm already planning another  frame to use it on.

Here is a quick shot of the retaining ring.  Its basically just like a key-ring and I've found that the best way to put it on is basically just like putting a tire on a rim, put a small portion on and then just work your way around slowly until it snaps into place.  After doing it a couple times and getting comfortable its not bad at all.

Actually what I should've said, is that there isn't much to installing them.  I'm not a machinist but I imagine the process of making them has a bit of complexity.  I would love to watch them being made as they're very well thought out and beautifully machined. I never gave them much thought in the past however after working with them I realize how invaluble they are.

This is actually just the mock-up coupling that they give you so you don't scratch up the main stainless lock nut.  Since I was cleaning up the lugs I decided to go ahead and put a little shine on this coupling as well.  Once I started shining everything up I didn't want to stop.

The main coupling of course.

Once I get these tacked in place I can start a little fillet-brazing. Back to work.