DIY: removing the weight distributor pad from the shoulder strap (w/ lots of pics)

[cupcakegirl]

Hey ladies! I got fed up with the strap of my First slipping off my shoulder constantly, so I did some searching and found that removing the "pad" from the shoulder strap solves the problem! Although this weight distributor pad is intended for comfort, for me, it's too wide and makes the strap slide right off my shoulder.
Anyway, I recently got another First... so when I removed the weight distributor this time, I took pics of the process. Hopefully, they'll be helpful to others...

Here's the weight distributor pad (sorry it's a bit hidden):

 

[cupcakegirl]

1. Use some painter's tape to cover the ends of the clip. This will prevent it from scratching the “o” ring during removal. The clip is really tight, so unless you put tape on it the metal to metal contact will cause scratches.

 

[cupcakegirl]

2. Unhook one end of the strap from the bag. Slide the weight distributor down.

 

[cupcakegirl]

3. Carefully, but with a little force, wiggle one side of the “bale” thru the first slot at an angle. I find it works best if you push it thru (see arrow), rather than pulling it. Wiggle the other side thru, so the entire “bale” has cleared the first slot.

 

[cupcakegirl]

4. Repeat with the remaining slots.

(shown from the back)

 

[cupcakegirl]

5. Reapply the tape and reattach the strap to the bag. Viola! That's it... takes less than 5 minutes. And best of all, no damage done and the “pad” can easily be put back on the strap if needed.

Hope that helps!

 

[MrsJstar]

Thanks for those tips! I'm gonna try on my city bag! What bag are you taking it off of?!

 

[cupcakegirl]

Thanks for those tips! I'm gonna try on my city bag! What bag are you taking it off of?!

Hey MrsJstar! It's a Bleu Lavande First... the color is impossible to capture! The first and last shots were photoshopped.

 

[taskelover]

Thanks for open this thread, its really helpful been thinking to do it so, but was afraid to try, now I know the tricks

 

[angelamaz2]

Wow! Such a good DIY tip. Thanks so much.

 

[coachmommyofmin]

I just did exactly that with my Velo 2 days ago! It was surprisingly easy to do too, and no damage done!

 

[Crazyinlv]

Ha funny, I was carrying my black rh city today and got a tad irritated with my strap sliding (handling a shopping cart and 4 year old) I flipped the strap over...I tried removing the pad on my 06 emerald first a few years ago but stopped when I could not figure it out....never tried again on my other bals. THANK YOU for posting this!!!! Love your BL!!

 

[Conni618]

Thank you cupcakegirl! Love the tape idea. Those clips are beyond tight AND scratchy!

 

[tryagain]

thanks for the tips

 

[joy&lv]

Glad to know that I am not the only one who find the pad annoying. I remove them from all my bags... I have to say, I wasn't as careful.