Loose screws in fiberglass

[1010]

The 50 amp female connector is attached to the trailer with 4 screws in the fiberglass, no backing or support. The screws no longer hold the 50 amp receptacle in place. What is the best way to reattach the receptacle, larger screws through the existing screw holes using plastic anchors? Putting in a backing so the screws had something to bite into would be the best option but I would have to disconnect the connector and I would rather avoid doing that.

[OMMM4747]

Originally Posted by 1010

Putting in a backing so the screws had something to bite into would be the best option but I would have to disconnect the connector and I would rather avoid doing that.

That was my first thought. And as painful as it might be, you can fix it right or revisit the same issue later. Epoxies and patchwork are just band-aid fixes and band-aids aren't permanent.

You can take a bunch of pictures and visit a couple of auto and preferably boat body shops and see if they have any simpler, permanent, solutions.

Good luck

[Argosy]

Backing doesn't have to be a single piece, it can be as simple as fender washers. Machine screws with nylock nuts should stay tight for a long time.

[glwinger]

Originally Posted by Argosy

Backing doesn't have to be a single piece, it can be as simple as fender washers. Machine screws with nylock nuts should stay tight for a long time.

Or use a piece of 1/8 or 1/4 inch aluminum plate with a hole cut into it the same size original hole. Then cut a slot in the plate wide enough to go over the wires and slide it in place. This will give you a large, reinforced area.

[zrock2010]

If it was me i would get some flatbar aluminum or steel. Drill and tap it and then epoxy it to the back side of your sheeting. You should not have to disconnect anything this way and it will never fail again.

[PKI]

With all the vibration inherent to a traveling RV, screws are slow speed mills. They just keep on removing material over time. The suggestions to use a backing plate and through bolt the assembly with locking fasteners reflect a great approach. That is, if there is access to the back side.

If there is not access available, Nut-serts or similar thread replacement products may be your best approach.

[glwinger]

Originally Posted by PKI

With all the vibration inherent to a traveling RV, screws are slow speed mills. They just keep on removing material over time. The suggestions to use a backing plate and through bolt the assembly with locking fasteners reflect a great approach. That is, if there is access to the back side.

If there is not access available, Nut-serts or similar thread replacement products may be your best approach.

The problem with traditional nutserts , is they put a lot of pressure on the plastic and may crack it.
There are special rivnuts for plastic called plusnuts
https://www.rivetnutusa.com/plusnut-rivet-nut-rivnut/
https://www.amazon.com/Multi-Grip-In...1zcF9hdGY&th=1

[RickNC]

Originally Posted by 1010

The 50 amp female connector is attached to the trailer with 4 screws in the fiberglass, no backing or support. The screws no longer hold the 50 amp receptacle in place. What is the best way to reattach the receptacle, larger screws through the existing screw holes using plastic anchors? Putting in a backing so the screws had something to bite into would be the best option but I would have to disconnect the connector and I would rather avoid doing that.

Make a horseshoe shape a backer like this. It will likely only engage 3 machine screws with nuts. but will 3 hold it in place.

[1010]

I really appreciate all of you taking the time to address my question. Terrific helpful answers that even I can understand. I have my homework to do as your answers are all applicable and would work. Hopefully I can use the existing holes. Thanks again.

[1010]

I forgot to mention the backing is the fiberglass rear cap. I like the simplistic of the Plusnut Fastner or the River Nut if I can find the correct size.

[hamm2018]

Originally Posted by 1010

I forgot to mention the backing is the fiberglass rear cap. I like the simplistic of the Plusnut Fastner or the River Nut if I can find the correct size.

Is there an access panel on the inside wall behind the furniture? If not, you may be able to go thru the underbelly covering to gain access to the plug.

[Unplanned Tourist]

Look at "banana" pop rivets. Excellent for what you need.

[R.M.A]

Speed nuts is what I used to hold the fenders on my Montana "Legacy Edition"

[mokurt]

Originally Posted by Argosy

Backing doesn't have to be a single piece, it can be as simple as fender washers. Machine screws with nylock nuts should stay tight for a long time.

I would go with this if there is room for the larger washers.