Stripped screws in Azdel

acwilson

I need help please. The 30 a plug won’t stay tight up against the body of my trailer.  Has anyone else run into this, and how did they fix it? I’ve already had to replace my 30 a plug once a couple of years ago because a wire from it came loose.  Now the whole thing is loose. 

2022 Tab 320s

Thanks!

MuttonChops

I've not had Screw Stripping issues so no direct experience.
One of the nüCamp Tech-Tips says to stuff steel wool into the wall hole, then use a power driver to screw the screw back in. Believe the power driver is needed to get the steel wool to really wrap tight to the screw.

Another method would be to just through bolt the power port to the wall with fender washers (or similar) used on the in cabin side.  All the power port screws should be accessible from the cabin side.

GBL_citruscountyfl

@acwilson take a small piece of 1/2" or thicker plywood and cut it into approximately a 6" square, then drill a hole in the middle to slide over the 30amp plug on the inside of the wall 2-1/2"-3" hole.) Get some 2-1/2" screws and replace the ones that stripped out.  Very simple and will never pull out again.  You may have to cut that plywood a little different if you have things to go around near the plug.

Binghi

Try replacing the existing attachment screws with larger diameter screws and see if they hold. I’ve done that with a lot of the screws on my trailer, and oftentimes it works.

jbajor

This happened to me…. Because this is a high use, high force item, I put machine screws all the way through the Azdel with washers and nuts on the other side.  Super secure and no worries!

elbolillo

Have you thought about just changing the location of the screws? Try moving the screws on the flange to a different location and make fresh holes.

elbolillo

As a reference, this is how the screws are orientated in our ´23 Tab 400.

tabiphile

This is not an unusual problem and it is easy to correct. Remove the current screws and mix a small amount of slow set epoxy. Insert the epoxy and one or two wooden tooth picks into the stripped out holes. Allow it to cure before trimming the toothpicks flush. Reassemble it carefully making sure not to force the screws. The repair will be permanent. 
I would shy away from using larger screws. 

RCB

Years ago I asked the Adzel folks how fasten items to the Adzel panels. They recommended using plastic screw in drywall anchors; then screw into the centre of the anchor. 

tphaggerty

RCB said:

Years ago I asked the Adzel folks how fasten items to the Adzel panels. They recommended using plastic screw in drywall anchors; then screw into the centre of the anchor. 

This I what I've done. For stripped screws, I use some glue on the outside of the anchor before screwing it into the previous hole in the adzel. Wait 24 hours then screw in whatever. Pretty much a very permanent fix.