PCB stabilizers coming off the pcb

[asgeirtj]

I'm building my LZ RV and I'm having this infuriating problem:  When I pull of caps the stabilizer often comes off the pcb with it.  It's horrible, in order to change keyesets or test the stabilizer key I have to resolder all the board.  Any solutions?  I have ruled out that I have faulty stabs because I ordered new ones.  I have also tried lubing the stabs at the top so in order for the caps to come off more easily but that doesn't work.  Please help!

[jdcarpe]

But it's still there, under the plate, right? You don't have to desolder everything every time this happens. Just use a small screwdriver to place the stabilizer back into its proper holes in the PCB, after you get the keycap off.

[Spopepro]

And to add, this is not uncommon for the clip type PCB mount stabs. It's why many prefer the older (?) screw type (but it sounds like we will have a new source soon...)

You should take care when removing key caps, much like you would with very sticky combos (like some pbt caps on clear stems) and like JD says, if they come off the board just pop them back on.

[Tactile]

There are pcb mount stabilizers which mount with a screw instead of just snapping into the hole. I have no idea what they are called or how to search for/purchase them, but they're out there and might fix your problem.

[user 18]

And to add, this is not uncommon for the clip type PCB mount stabs. It's why many prefer the older (?) screw type (but it sounds like we will have a new source soon...)

I believe Zeal is working on getting something like this in stock at ZealPC (https://geekhack.org/index.php?topic=83833.0)

[Zeal]

Solution to PCB mount stabilizers popping out, without stripping the plastic threads (or lack thereof, as Cherry vintage screw stabs are threaded on the spot with the stock screw)