MOTHER'S BIKE SERVICE STAND

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The clamp mechanism is unique not only because it incorporates Vise Grips, but also because it features an all-position swivel. To give the stand this capability, just file or grind a section of 3/4" X 2-1/2" pipe until it slips easily into the open end of the upright stanchion, and braze a 1/2" nut inside this hollow plug in such a way that its outer face is flush with one end of the pipe (you may have to file the nut's corners slightly if it's to fit properly). Then sink the plug's opposite end 5/8 inch into the curved E.M.T. support and braze it in place.

Next, cut a 2" length of conduit from your scrap, and braze a 1/2" X 1-1/4" bolt to its side, off center . . . then fasten a 1/2" nut to the upper jaw of the Vise Grips, right over the rivet, in the same manner. By spinning a third 1/2" nut onto the exposed bolt and threading the clamp assembly onto the end of that stud, you can use the free nut to lock the grip in any position. Then, to complete the swivel, just slip the clamp's collar over its pipe plug (with the flank bolt closest to the end) and run a 1/2" X 1-1/2" bolt, with a washer, into that stem's countersunk nut to serve as a lock.

Wrap the project up by giving the stand a coat or two of your favorite paint and gluing some 2" X 4" leather pads to the inside surfaces of the new angle jaws to prevent damage to the bike's finish. (You might also want to slip some rubber caps over the legs' sharp ends for safety's sake.) Since the modified Vise Grips are still fully adjustable—and likely almost as tenacious as they were when you bought them—you may find that your creation will serve other purposes in addition to grabbing bicycles. In fact, the homemade stand is so useful that you might just want to purchase a new pair of Vise Grips and use your present one in this project... even if it's not worn out yet!

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