Forum Discussion

salem's avatar
salem
Explorer
Jul 14, 2018

grab handle

The handle you grab to go up the steps into the trailer is very loose. Two of the screws are coming out. It doesn't do any good to tighten them as they seem to be stripped. Any ideas as to how to tighten them. Someone here said try "lock-tight," but I've never used that and not sure if it would work. Thanks
  • The stud might be aluminum tubing, check before using wood and wood glue. Matchsticks will only work on wood studs.
  • Remove handle. Shoot liquid nailes in the hole filling it. Let dry. Reinstall.
  • kerrlakeRoo wrote:
    A couple of small pieces of wood (matchstick sized) inserted into the hole with a couple drops of Elmer's glue on them, then put the screws back in and tighten. Try not to use the handle overnight.
    Should be good the next morning.


    X10

    ^^ THIS is the answer!
    Buy a box of those long stick matches they are the just the right size for the job.

    I've tried everything else and none of them work like the match stick method.

    Use Elmer's 'Wood Glue' on the match stick. The screw wraps around the wood the glue makes a tight bond and and that screw won't wiggle ever again!! :B
  • I've used that matchsticks/glue idea before on different things in the rig. Didn't even think of it for this. I'll give that a try since I have everything available. If it doesn't work I'll try the other suggestions. Thanks to you all.
  • A couple of small pieces of wood (matchstick sized) inserted into the hole with a couple drops of Elmer's glue on them, then put the screws back in and tighten. Try not to use the handle overnight.
    Should be good the next morning.
  • Don't think it will but plastic screw anchors will, remove a screw and go to Lowes and size what you need.

    Threadlocker won't do the job.
  • Thread locker will do little good for a stripped screw. Can you use the next larger screw? Can you move up or down to make new holes?

About RV Tips & Tricks

Looking for advice before your next adventure? Look no further.25,103 PostsLatest Activity: Jan 21, 2025