Self Lock Measuring Tape Hack

This is a quick modification to self lock tape measures to prevent them from creeping back into the housing.

Step 1: Disassemble

Remove the screws and detach one side of the housing.

Step 2: Tabs

Look at the shape of the tape measure lock wedge. If it is a scalene triangle we will need to modify it.

Step 3: Cut

Cut the tabs off one edge of the wedge to create an isosceles triangle shape.

Step 4: Reassemble

Reassemble the housing.

Step 5: Test

Test the tape measure to be sure the retraction issue is resolved.