hook lock alignment on Irwin Hilmor GLM pipe bender

[Voter Colonel]

Apologies, this has been touched on in the past. I have just bought a brand new set of Irwin Hilmor GLM pipe benders and there seems to be a problem with the black lock hook not sitting squarely on the pipe (15mm). See attached pic. This is my first pipe bender so don't know if this is acceptable or whether it should be returned, or possibly me just not using them correctly? Just looking for opinions really.
thanks.

 

[dan2071]

That's just how they are, mine are the same. You can't seem to be able to buy a decent set of Benders anymore. I've had issues with the bolts that go through the rollers bending.

Dan

 

[Voter Colonel]

Thanks Dan, that being the case I will hold onto them rather than going for an exchange as they do pull a decent bend. Very disappointing that something that is such basic engineering can't be done right. Might have a moan at the manufacturer.
cheers

 

[ReganAndCarter]

That's just how they are, mine are the same. You can't seem to be able to buy a decent set of Benders anymore.

Basically, you bought a fake, imitation GLM...................................

10 years ago, the Hilmor GLM was one of the best benders available. About that time, the company that made them - Bend It Now - lost the contract to make them in The UK. They are now made for Hilmor in the Far East and the quality is shoite.

However, Bend It Now continue to make the GLM in The UK to the original high quality. They have been making tools for 35 years, so if anyone needs new benders, I suggest they forget Hilmor and get an original quality GLM from B. I.Now. I think they're approx. £80. Anything else is just money down the drain.

http://www.benditnow.co.uk/

 

[Madrab]

You could also file out the groove a little so the pipe sits squarer in the hook.

 

[oilboffin]

Mine are record old but brill. Bob

 

[Echo the husky]

Return them, they are not fit for purpose.