How to Fix Your Tape Measure Retraction System

Tape Measures are extremely handy tools for a variety of tasks. Be it measuring the size of your room for your new carpet or the space in your garage for a new rack, tape measures provide an easy way to do the measurement without the hassle of rolling or unrolling the tape. However, if the retraction system that brings the metallic tape back into the case stops working, you would be left with a messy measurement device that may seem destined for the trash can. However, most of the times the retraction system can be easily fixed with either a quick look inside or by replacing the spring.

Step 1: Open the Case

Use a small screwdriver to open the case. Be careful with the contents inside after the case is open, as you do not want the tape and the system to fall out of the case and unwind. Keeping your finger on top or using a small piece of masking tape might solve the problem.

Take a look inside to see if there is a simple problem with the retraction system, for example the spring might be undamaged but unhinged from the tape or there might be dirt clogging the spring. In that case remove the dirt or try putting the spring back on the hinge and proceed to Step 5.

Step 2: Remove the Tape

If the problem runs deeper than this, you will have to remove the tape to observe the retraction system. Take the tape slowly out of the case, holding the retraction system in place. Once it is all out, disconnect the tape from the spring.

Step 3: Replace/Fix the Retraction System

If the spring is broken, disconnected or damaged, you will need to replace it with a new one. A new part can be purchases at the store you got the measuring tape from as many manufacturers also supply components for these products. Make sure you have the model number and size when you go to the store to get the exact fit.

Step 4: Put the Tape Back

After replacing the spring, connect the tape to the spring. This can be done by putting the end of the spring into the hole at the start of the tape. There is usually a part connected with tape, you can use masking tape to put it back together. After the connection is secured, let the tape roll slowly back into the case as doing it in a hurry with an open case might cause the system to fail again.

Step 5: Close the Case

Having tested the retraction system by letting the tape roll in, you have successfully repaired your retraction system. Now remove the masking tape keeping the system inside the case and reattach the top cover with the screwdriver. Your measuring tape should retract just fine.