Shasta Slayer Posted May 24, 2011 Posted May 24, 2011 Wanting to convert 'newmatic' style (plastic toebail) G14 crampons to the metal strap 'cramp-o-matic' style. Cannot find a conversion kit or any vendor (especially Grivel) who carries a replacement wire bail replacement part. Want to be able to fit over larger double-boots, overboot combos, or AT boots for a Denali trip. -It appears simple enough of a procedure to remove the plastic bail, drill a 'catch' hole for the wire bail in the front spikes and adapt the strap. -Anyone come a cross a replacement wire bail for the cramp-o-matic or willing to trade a cramp-o-matic for a newmatic pair? I have the extender bar installed on the newmatics right now and are long enough for size 47 LaSportiva Nepal Evo Extremes but am upgrading to Baruntses and an overboot and don't think the plastic bail will accomodate the bulk. Ideas/takers? Thanks. Quote
Jon H Posted May 25, 2011 Posted May 25, 2011 I would not recommend "converting" your crampons to a wire bail. Either trade, or sell and then buy. If nothing else, the hole on the factory-made cramp-o-matics is not drilled. It is oblong and prevents the bail from popping out sideways when you torque your crampons. Drilling a round hole could be potentially disastrous. I'm there are other metallurgical concerns that I'm not even aware of as well. Quote
DPS Posted May 25, 2011 Posted May 25, 2011 What Jon H said. Many folks feel that the plastic 'Scottish' toe bail is better than wire bails for use with overboots. Quote
wdietsch Posted May 26, 2011 Posted May 26, 2011 Have you tried purchasing a set "cramp-o-matic" front frames? Both of these retailers have been pretty good with Grivel parts in the past. Mountain Tools The Mountaineer Quote
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