HOW DO I:

[BPofMD]

: repair a stripped out screw hole on the side of a Gel-Coated side wall of a RV? In my case, an '07 Arctic Fox? I was thinking JB Weld then drilling and rethreading with self-tapping screw. Anyone see a problem with that?

[jsimon724]

Hey Bud,
what does the stripped out screw hold?
Is it supporting something or does it just hold the siding on? And what's behind it, anything substantial like wood or aluminum? Just wondering how much weight it's got to support and maybe if an anchor of some type would work.

[BPofMD]

It holds up one of the basement doors so it don't hit ya in the head while in there. Looks like factory drilled pilot hole too big.

I already took some wood splinters and shoved them in there with some Gorilla glue. I'll wait for it to dry, then start over with a smaller pilot hole and self-tapping screws.

[jsimon724]

I was gonna suggest that - a few toothpicks and some wood glue go a long way!

[Old Rusty Wrench]

I may be wromg but I think the repair is to use a pop-rivet. If you look around your rig you will see them used. Threads do not hold well in fiberglass/plastic. It breaks away from the threds. Gel-Coat is just what it says a coat. LOL

[BPofMD]

If this doesn't hold, I will do that...thanks man - 'preaciate it!

[Old93junk]

I cant think of the name brand, but there are expanding fasteners(inserts) that expand on the first use to anchor themselves in just such a place. Try a dedicated fastener supply house.

[BPofMD]

Well, got the screw and plate fastened down....seems the Gorilla glue is holding it real tight. I also put a dab on each of the 2 screws. Replaced the original screws with same size stainless screws tho....Guess the trick is not to over tighten.