Field Medic

As a child of the ’80s, I was obviously obsessed with G.I. Joes. My family was of very modest means, so the cheaper G.I. Joes (generally between $2 and $4 for a single figure) were much easier for me to collect. As they were my favorite playthings and not sturdily made, it was very easy for the Joes to break. It took me years to realize that by removing the screw in the back and replacing the O-ring that attaches the body pieces together, you could easily and cheaply repair figures. I like the #8 or #9 O-rings, generally about $2.99/10 pack at Home Depot.

As an adult (and still a Joe collector) I like to think I’ve improved upon what I learned. I highly recommend a 21-piece 3-volt cordless precision screwdriver set (about$13). It has all the tiny heads you’ll need to quickly remove the Joe’s screw. Once removed, separate the torso and remove the damaged O-ring. Make sure to remove any leftover O-ring from the leg hook piece. Now the hardest part for me (I have big hands) is snaking the O-ring through the crotch piece after you’ve hooked it through the legs. Once snaked through, I like to attach the O-ring to the back half of the torso. Then add the front of the torso. Lastly, I add back in the arms and heads, being careful to not let the torso fall apart. Once all the apendages are in, you flip it around and screw it back together. All in all, the process should take about 5 minutes. Now Doc and Lifeline won’t be the only Joe lifesavers. —LV

Madeline Vega