How to repair Mimosa cantilever umbrella spoke?

[MaryLou]

Hello - wondering what advice you could offer about a broken spoke in a Mimosa 3.5m cantilever umbrella. It snapped in a rogue wind gust today and am hoping it doesn't mean the end of it. There doesn't seem to be any other damage. 

The break is about halfway along ...in the middle of the spoke. Surely it can be replaced somehow?

I look forward to your advice! 

Many thanks,

Mary-Lou

[EricL]

Hello @MaryLou 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us, and thanks for sharing your question about your cantilever umbrella.

You might have to get a little bit creative in regards to the repair of your umbrella. If you are handy with a hack saw, I propose cutting a bit of aluminium and inserting it in between the two broken spokes. Once the spoke is in the correct position you can fix it in place using steel self-tapping screws. 

Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendation.

Please remember to wear personal protections equipment such as gloves goggles and a mask when working on your project. 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[Dave-1]

Morning @MaryLou 

My idea is similar to @EricL's and maybe the same...

I was thinking of some angled aluminium that covers at least 200mm  eaither side of the break. You attach it to the broken strut pretty much like you would for a broken arm. I am not sure if the arms are timber or metal tho. I would then drill 4 holes along the length and put bolts through them with nuts.

Metal Mate 20 x 20 x 1.5mm 1m Bronze Aluminium Angle Something like this, there are a range of sizes and lengths available.

Dave

[MaryLou]

 

 

[MaryLou]

Thank you both - thinking you may need a bit more info. Here are some pics...

Hubby reckons replacement part is really the only way😔

[Dave-1]

Morning @MaryLou 

mmmmmm the bendy bit makes life a bit more complicated I must admit

Two thoughts come to mind.... 

First one, keep an eye out for people throwing out their old same type Umbrellas. Lots do around this time of year into the new year. Grab one and see if you can replace the tine? or just the bendy bit (tho think it will be shorter due to the bit thats snapped off)

Second thought, use something like this Pinnacle 200mm Galvanised Strap Hinge With Brass Pin - 2 Pack  and do the same thing with the small bolts through it. Id only use one hinge tho, not either side. You will need washers on the non hinge side as that aluminium will be easy tobend when tightening id say. The length of the hinge will make it easier to attach, my only concern is "it snapping" into place like your existing tines (think thats the word? lol) May be worth a try, tho think keeping an eye out for a whole arm may be easier

Dave

[EricL]

Hello @MaryLou 

Thanks for sharing those extra photos of your umbrella. I totally agree with @Dave-1's suggestions regarding the spare parts. There is always the opportunity that a neighbour will be getting rid of their umbrella. It's the perfect opportunity to get some spare parts. 

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[MaryLou]

Thank you so much all - we appreciate your thoughts and advice. 

Wish us luck!!

ML

[Nailbag]

Hi @MaryLou 

This is the process to how I have repaired small to medium sized market umbrella's in the past.

1. Drill out the axel rivet

2. Take this piece to Bunnings and find a suitable sized aluminium tubing that will slide over

3. Drill holes through the sleeve and original tubing and insert bolts, spring washers and nuts and do them up tightly.

4. Drill a hole through the original tube and through the extended sleeve. This time use a bolt, flat washer and insert bolt through tubing. Another flat washer, a nut tight enough to allow the joint to move, then a second nut with Loctite on the thread to secure it into place.

 Nailbag