I replace mine with some copper pipe many years ago. I believe it was 1/2 hard copper pipe. Measured the original plastic stand-offs. Cut the pipe to the correct length, including a threaded pipe fitting. Soldered on the standard threaded pipe fitting for 1/2" pipe. Bought the standard size pipe tap to match the threaded pipe fitting. Just so happens that the holes in the housing where the original plastic stand-offs are inserted is pretty close to the correct size for the tap. Tapped the holes, had to use a long extension to get the tap down to the holes. Pretty easy to tap since it's some type of aluminum alloy, use some WD-40 as lubricant. Just need to make sure you get the tap started straight. Inserted the copper pipe and screwed them in. Been working great like that for at least 7 or 8 years now.
