We know first-hand how satisfying it is to open that box the first time and feel the weight of that perfectly polished piece of design we call the Ridge. On the flip side of that, we also know how heartbreaking it can be to watch it get beat up, stained, and mistreated by accidental finger fumbling or pocket falls.
Let’s make sure you know how to handle Ridge Wallet issues when it does.
Replacing Your Elastic or Money Clip
If – for some reason – your elastic band manages to get cut, or your money clip becomes bent out of shape, don’t worry. It’s a very easy fix. First, you’re going to want to order a replacement for whichever piece you need.
Once you get your part in, it’s as simple as taking your T5 Torx screwdriver that came with your wallet and unscrewing the 14 screws that keep your metal or polycarbonate in place. This will release the faceplates of your Ridge. For your elastic band, all you have to do is remove it from around the inner plates, and replace it with your new band.
To replace your money clip, all you have to do is remove the 4 screws that are closest to the money clip. The clip should easily pull out. Now, carefully slide in your new money clip until it’s flush and even on both sides. Then, just screw back in those 4 screws you removed earlier. Done. It’s that easy.
Removing Stains
This here is an easy fix, no matter which type of material your Ridge is made of. For all variations – polycarbonate up through carbon fiber – a nice warm bath in some mild detergent should get rid of pretty much any kind of stain that happens to take a hold of your wallet.
We don’t recommend just plopping it into some water, though. First - gauge the seriousness of the stain. If it’s just some simple buildup, grab a small, soft-bristled brush and use a mild detergent to just scrub it out. However, if it’s a more serious buildup, we’re going to have to take it apart.
Remove the 7 screws with your T5 Torx screwdriver, then take off the faceplate. Now, you should remove the elastic piece if you have it and keep it dry. If you have a money clip, it’s fine to wash. Then, go ahead and drop the stained plates into the detergent mixture and let it soak for a while before scrubbing it rigorously with a soft brush. For titanium, Windex can work wonders.
We understand how important a wallet really is. That’s why we created The Ridge. Hopefully, this can help you keep yours healthy for a lifetime.
How to Deal With Stuck Screws
Screws can endure a lot of wear over time. Even if you don’t constantly unscrew or touch them, environmental impacts, bumping, and age are enough to wear them down just enough to make them harder to unscrew. Dirt and debris build up in the threads, while moisture and air can cause oxidation, leading to rust.
Natural wear can lead to stuck screws, but so can using excessive force when tightening them. If you tighten the screw too much, it could get jammed. Signs that you’re dealing with stuck screws include resistance when turning, rust, poor alignment with the screwdriver head, or a worn-out or damaged screw head.
If you find your Ridge Wallet screws stuck, use the right tool to avoid more issues. For Ridge wallets and similar products, go for a T5 Torx screwdriver. It fits perfectly with the screw head and makes it easy to turn without stripping the screw in the process. Keep your workspace clean and well-lit to clearly see what you’re doing and protect your screws from mishaps.
Before attempting to remove a stuck screw, understand why it is stuck. Is it due to rust, over-tightening, or dirt piling up? Try using a penetrating oil like WD40 Rust Release Penetrant and let it sit for a few minutes. Tap the screw head gently with a hammer, which can break bonds holding the screw in place. Use the correct T5 Torx Ridge Wallet screwdriver and turn counterclockwise. Apply more force only if you have to, but don’t overdo it or you might strip the screw head. If the head of your Ridge Wallet screws stripped, try a Ryobi Screw Extractor to take it out. It’s the best way to get a stripped screw out. If your screws are unusable after removing them, you may need replacement screws.
Preventing Future Issues
You want to be proactive to have your screws last and work correctly. The primary preventative method is simply going easy on them. You can strip the heads of screws or put too much pressure on the drilled material if you over-tighten them. That can lead to cracks and breaks. So use just enough force to tighten the screws, but not so much that it becomes too much and then you can’t unscrew a screw.
Another preventative measure is maintenance. Check your screws for signs of loosening and keep them clean to avoid dirt and debris buildup. The buildup can cause the screws to get stuck or corrode over time.
Thread Stopper products like DAP Tank Bond are also helpful. These products (which can be used on metal, wood, or plastic) stop screws from slipping out unintentionally without compromising adjustability, removability, and reusability. You can use these products on nearly any kind of loose screws, from door hinges to your Ridge Wallet. But for items like a metal wallet, remember that tiny loose screws can compromise the whole item and your belongings in it, so thread carefully and make sure not to misplace or incorrectly treat any of them.
Humidity can cause screws to corrode, so rust-resistant materials and protective coatings could be pretty useful in such cases. Thread lockers are a great way to keep screws from popping off. However, you must use them with care as permanent types can be hard to remove in the future. If you’re concerned, choose a removable or less adhesive version instead to balance security and adjustability.
What if You Can’t Loosen Your Ridge Wallet Screws?
If you find your Ridge Wallet screws stuck and unable to loosen them despite your best efforts, the smartest thing to do is seek help from Ridge Wallet’s official customer service. Ridge Wallets come with a warranty, which you can use to get your wallet repaired or replaced if there’s a need for that. But if you try too hard to DIY-away your problem, you might void the warranty.
Ridge’s customer service has the expertise and tools to help you – whether it’s advice on how to address the issue, repair service, or a replacement. And giving them a call means you safeguard your warranty and can go about handling the problem at home if customer service gives the green light for it.
It’s always best to seek expert assistance in these cases. Trying various solutions found online can be risky and end up doing more harm than good if you aren’t very careful about it. Reaching out to the professionals means your Ridge Wallet will last longer and do its job properly. For extra help, take a look at the official Ridge website – they have a special support section that answers all kinds of queries about their products. As they say, better safe than sorry.
Why Does the Ridge Wallet Come with a Screwdriver?
Ridge wallets are designed with both durability and functionality in mind, and the inclusion of a T-5 Torx screwdriver with each wallet is a testament to this design philosophy. Here's why the screwdriver is an essential accessory for Ridge wallet owners:
Easy Disassembly for Maintenance or Customization:
The Ridge wallet's modular design allows for easy disassembly, and the T-5 Torx screwdriver is the perfect tool for this. Whether you need to replace a worn part or simply wish to give your wallet a thorough cleaning, the screwdriver makes it convenient to disassemble the wallet without damaging its components.
Versatility in Carrying Options:
Ridge wallets offer the flexibility to switch between a cash strap and a money clip based on personal preference. The included screwdriver enables you to easily make this switch at home, ensuring your wallet always suits your carrying needs.
Screw Tightening and Replacement:
Over time, the screws on your wallet may loosen due to regular use. The T-5 Torx screwdriver allows you to quickly tighten these screws, ensuring the wallet remains secure and functional. Additionally, if a screw is lost or damaged, the screwdriver aids in the replacement process, maintaining the wallet's integrity.
Elastic Refreshment:
The wallet's elastic, essential for holding cards securely, may stretch or wear out with prolonged use. The screwdriver assists in refreshing or replacing the elastic, thereby extending the wallet's lifespan and keeping your cards snug and secure.
Promoting Longevity:
Regular maintenance facilitated by the screwdriver is key to the wallet's longevity. By enabling easy repairs and adjustments, the screwdriver helps ensure that your Ridge wallet remains a reliable accessory for years to come.
Extend Your Wallet’s Life: Key Takeaways
Your Ridge Wallet is a tough thing. It has precision and longevity in its core. It’s an investment in quality and style that endures years of use. But true durability doesn’t just come from a product’s build quality but also from responsible use. To be sure it stands the test of time, pay attention and take care of it the best you can.
With wear and tear, oxidation, over-tightening, or dirt accumulation, screws can become stuck and become a pain to remove. Spotting signs like trouble rotating or visible erosion beforehand makes resolving them much easier. If you use the proper tools—such as the T5 Torx screwdriver—you can guarantee effective maintenance without damage. Prevention is better than cure; by avoiding over-tightening screws, routinely cleaning, and considering thread stoppers, you can prevent unwanted movement.
If you ever have difficulty with your Ridge Wallet, don’t hesitate to reach out to customer service. There are no wrong questions. The customer service will give you advice or replacement if necessary. With proper care, your Ridge Wallet will last for years.
Whether you want to update your EDC wallet collection or gift someone, Ridge has quality and stylish products that will faithfully serve you or your loved ones for a long time. Stylish Ridge wallets are incredibly useful, with such extra features as an AirTag locator, cash strap plate, and more. It has a bit for everyone.
