Presto Pressure Cooker Handle

[rp2813]

In Henrik's recent thread I mentioned the 6-quart stainless Presto I recently picked up at a thrift store.  It works perfectly and attains pressure quickly, but the part of the handle that's attached to the pot is loose.  The single screw that holds it in place is somewhat rusted and will not budge in either direction.  I don't know the age of this cooker but unlike any of my others, it was made in China.  The quality seems to be just as good as that of my made-in-USA Prestos, and I think it could be induction-friendly.  

The loose handle is stabilized when the lid is locked in place so the issue isn't a show-stopper, but the looseness is kind of annoying.  Could this be a result of machine washing?  Any ideas for remedies? 

 

Yet again, pix have all been rotated upon attachment.  I think I'm done with Firefox, as it's begun to create problems in other ways besides just this.

 

[petek]

Dishwasher is my guess with the different materials expanding/contracting at different rates.

 

[rp2813]

Thanks Pete. 

 

The handles aren't as shiny as the ones on my two aluminum Prestos of the same design (which should always be washed by hand), and I also have a stainless 4-quart Presto with the '60s/'70s style straight brown handle.  The lower handle is loose on that one too, but less so.   Coincidence?  I don't think so, but as long as the damage has been done, I won't feel bad about running them through the Miele. 

 

[askolover]

When I bought my most recent presto it arrived with the handles unattached and I had to attach them. They are as tight as I dare to tighten them but they still move a little. My old Preston does not do this and it was fully assembled when it was purchased. I got both of them new but about 25 years apart.