hi all i have a etch mate 3c i have found it a pain to bend small parts with the grove in the base and was looking at replaceing the base with a aluminim plate but would like to keep the knobs and screw's that are with it but dont know how to get them out of the old base

Martin rather than wrecking a tool that has its uses why no take a look at an alternative bender. if you check this link it will show you an afordable option that I reviewed.

Martin instead of wrecking an expensive tool you could always get one of these little hand held tools. I have the No.1 and I find it comes in very use full for small parts and won't break the bank.