Where do I get a longer screw for a socket

OM2

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I have a plug socket.
Ut needs an extra long screw.
The existing one just about bites and with great trouble I can screw in.
After a whole, it comes loose again.

Where can I buy an extra long screw?

Not sure what measurements I need width wise.
Assuming they come in standard lengths.

Do they have a specific name?

Thanks.
 
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How long is the one you have got?

Are its threads worn off?

It is an M3.5, slotted, electrical screw, if you mean a UK socket.
 
I'll have to take off int he morning.
I don't think the thread is worn off - its was like that since day 1 when we first had it installed.

Can I buy from screwfix? or ebay?
EDIT: just found on screwfix. 40mm, 50mm, 25mm and 75 mm.
I only need a single one.
At least I know what to get. Thanks.
 
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If the screw is knackered, you may also need a 3.5mm tap/re-threading tool to clean up and re-thread the screw hole.
 
And if the 3.5mm lug will not hold a screw firm even after re-threading, you might have to re-thread with a 4mm tap and secure with a 4mm CSK screw, unless swapping the box out is a non-destructive option.

But you'd have to be pretty unlucky to end up in that situation.
 
Not all screws are made the same and some boxes different depths to others, sometimes you can swop the screw from a different socket and may do the job, though be carefull not to mess up another socket
 
you might have to re-thread with a 4mm tap and secure with a 4mm CSK screw.

Bit rough :)
There is a few ways to get round a damaged lug without replacing the box

£2.79
https://www.amazon.co.uk/Replace-Da...t=&hvlocphy=9044948&hvtargid=pla-966774215964

£3.56
s-l500.jpg
 
Last edited:
I don't think the thread is worn off

you sometimes find the thread is damaged just where you want it to grip most. perhaps previously cross-threaded or overtightened. if you hold it up to the light you will see, and the plating has gone.
 
Guys
Thanks for all the replies.
Very educational.

So I opened the screw. It's 55mm.
The end of the screw was worn out.
Screw fix £8 for 50 75mm.
Went to b&q and paid £3.72 for just 4 screws - doesn't matter, I only need 1 screw.
Other size is 50mm - guessing not good enough.

Got home and screwed in the first screw. Too long.
I took out screw - the end thread had worn out.

I spent 15 minutes sawing another screw without having the right tools. Mission accomplished - screw shortened.

I screw in again. It's not holding. I suspect lug is faulty.

I'll have to try one of the 2 methods suggested above.

Thanks.
 
And if the 3.5mm lug will not hold a screw firm even after re-threading, you might have to re-thread with a 4mm tap and secure with a 4mm CSK screw ...
Indeed - but, before re-threading, I think I'd probably first try just 'squashing' the lug (trying to make the hole very slightly oval) with a par of pliers or grips of some sort.

Kind Regards, John
 
Thanks John. I'll do that before trying anything
 
also, get a 3.5mm rethreader.

from your description of the screw thread getting "worn out", I think the thread in the steel lug may be damaged, so rethreading it may be all you need.

after squashing it oval, it will need rethreading anyway.
 
also, get a 3.5mm rethreader ... after squashing it oval, it will need rethreading anyway.
Indeed. Maybe it wasn't crystal clear, but that's what I meant by:
... before re-threading, I think I'd probably first try just 'squashing' the lug (trying to make the hole very slightly oval)
(the need for a 3.5mm re-threading tool was mentioned early on)

Kind Regards, John
 

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