R8 tools normally have quite a length of thread engaged. Threads can be easily damaged if someone loosens it almost all the way out, then hits the top end with a hammer to drive them out. I make a habit of loosening only about 1/8" before tapping it down. Also, I find that I don't have to tighten the drawbar very much to hold securely. Usually one hit with a plastic dead-blow hammer is enough.
If you have to make a new drawbar, pick up a piece of threaded rod that's a grade or two better than the hardware store variety. Cut to length and screw a nut on the end, then weld or pin the nut in place. Roll pins work for that.