I picked up a second Millers Fall brace (looks like Daniel Lane's) same/similar to my first. Not sure what model but they have the same open ratchets. I cleaned the first brace too well with a vinegar soak, for the second I want to leave some patina. Any suggestions?

My pad is loose with about 1/8 in vertical play due to the top of the collar wearing on the buckled(?) shaft stops. I might can finagle some spacers in there, but that probably won't last long, so like Daniel I'll hafta live with it. Also, some of the threads in the pad are worn down... so can the pad just be epoxied on?

Next I need to remove the ratchet box to straighten the lower horizontal arm. Any how-tos for that?

Thanks.