The pin is an important part of many hinges. Consisting of a rod-shaped piece of metal, it slides into the hollow knuckle section to hold the two leafs together. Not all hinges have a fixed pin, however. Some of them have a removable pin that you can pop out.
Understanding the Parts of a Hinge
A typical hinge consists of a few basic parts: two leafs, a knuckle and a pin. The leafs are the side panels with mounting holes. When installing a hinge, you’ll need to mount the leafs by driving screws through them and into the adjacent surfaces (e.g. a door and frame).
The knuckle is simply a hollow section that’s formed when you press the two leafs together. The inner side of each leaf has hollow notches. Pressing the two leafs together forms a hollow center that runs the entire length of the hinge. The pin’s job is to simply hold the two leafs together. Without a pin, the two leafs would separate, rendering the hinge useless.
Simplifies Door and Panel Removal
The main reason some hinges have a removable pin is because it simplifies the otherwise laborious and time-consuming process of removing doors and panels. Hinges, of course, are commonly used on doors and panels. They allow doors and panels to rotate away from an adjacent surface.
To remove a door with fixed hinge pins, you’ll typically have to unscrew the hinges. You can unscrew the leafs attached to the door, at which point you can lift and remove the door. If the door has removable hinge pins, though, you just need to pop them out. Popping out the hinge pins will allow you to remove the door without unscrewing any fasteners.
Easier Maintenance
Removeable pins also make hinges easier to maintain. Over time, hinges may require cleaning and lubrication. Cleaning will remove debris that can restrict or interfere with their ability to open and close. Lubrication, of course, will reduce friction and extend their overall life. If a hinge has a removeable pin, you can easily access the leafs and knuckle simply by popping the pin out.
Removing a Hinge Pin
Assuming they aren’t fixed, you can remove most hinge pins by tapping them with a tool. You’ll need to initially open the door or panel to relieve pressure on the hinges. Next, place a sturdy and narrow tool, such as a screwdriver, directly below the hinge pin. Using a hammer, gently tap the tool upwards. The pin should come out the top of the hinge.