Replacing a gas meter cupboard

WabbitPoo · 4 Jan 2021

My external, surface-mounted box is knackered.

Judging by the sizes alone it seems to be a Mitras MK1. Does that look to be true (can't find a model on the existing)? I'd like to buy a replacement cover but I can't see how the existing cover would detach, even though it's clearly separate from the back plate. Is it just brute force? Obvs worried about disturbing a pipe or connection if not careful.

TIA

muggles · 4 Jan 2021

Should swing away at the bottom then unhook from the top

WabbitPoo · 4 Jan 2021

Thanks. Without a model number on the existing, can you shed light on the likely make?

Madrab · 4 Jan 2021

The hinges always go on them. If asked I repair them with plastic external hinges and stainless screws and bolts.

They don't last forever of course but does extend their life somewhat.

Madrab · 4 Jan 2021

Certainly looks like the old Mitras box, even down to the ridge line around the door.

WabbitPoo · 4 Jan 2021

Madrab said:
The hinges always go on them. If asked I repair them with plastic external hinges and stainless screws and bolts.

They don't last forever of course but does extend their life somewhat.

I could do that, but the catch is broken as well, and the whole thing, even though I painted it 2 years ago, looks a mess, hence wanting a new one. At £60 or so I'm just being cautious that the new one will fit!

Madrab · 4 Jan 2021

As you suggest then, it's all down to size. You just need to marry up what you have. Yours will just pull away from the bottom and then up and off the back plate, you can then measure it up exactly.

I presume you have the dimensions of a replacement to compare it with?

ianmcd · 4 Jan 2021

Depending on the model, there are either two screws or two plastc bungs that hold the cover on , you will have to remove these

Madrab · 4 Jan 2021

ianmcd said:
Depending on the model, there are either two screws or two plastc bungs that hold the cover on , you will have to remove these

Every day's a schools day, every one I have gone to has just lifted off, no screws or bungs, no doubt they have broken off a long time ago. never had them come with the couple I've replaced either. Need to look out for them the next time.

ianmcd · 4 Jan 2021

Madrab said:
Every day's a schools day, every one I have gone to has just lifted off, no screws or bungs, no doubt they have broken off a long time ago. never had them come with the couple I've replaced either. Need to look out for them the next time.

No one ever fits them or puts them back in, in the days when you fitted the box they got site audits and the screws missing was a failure, so were fitted, but the first person that comes along removes them and throws them away.

WabbitPoo · 4 Jan 2021

ianmcd said:
No one ever fits them or puts them back in, in the days when you fitted the box they got site audits and the screws missing was a failure, so were fitted, but the first person that comes along removes them and throws them away.

yes mine looks just like that.....I'll order one and give it a go! Thanks for your help guys

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Replacing a gas meter cupboard

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