LOOSE ELECTRICAL FACEPLATE

[TOUCHINGCLOTH]

Hi

I have a twin socket that has a loose faceplate. The reason appears to be the metal retainer within the socket has become too large. I cannot easily replace the socket due to some poor tiling stopping me from replacing the whole unit.

Any ideas on how I can get rid of the loose faceplate?

 

[Adam_151]

If its the adjustbale lug, then canabalise one from a spare box

 

[TOUCHINGCLOTH]

Unfortunately not. It is part of the whole metal unit without any retaining screws

 

[AlanPPP]

Try and rethread the lug and use a slightly bigger screw? Not too much bigger though

 

[martinxxxxxx]

Just araldite a 3.5mm nut to the backface of the offending lug.

Do it up gently - should be ok

 

[sparkwright]

buy a 3.5 mm re-threader from a good electrical wholesaler.

get some pliers and give the lug on the box a bit of a twist so the screw hole becomes slightly distorted.
re-thread the hole with the re-threader. be careful with it as it can snap off in the hole.
use a new screw if the old one looks suspect.

 

[flameport]

Another option:
Drill out the existing metal lug with a 4mm bit, so the 3.5mm screw will pass through easily.
Drill a 3mm hole in the back of the metal box in line with the lug (use the lug as a guide), then thread the hole.
Fit the faceplate using a long screw which passes through the lug (to keep it in the correct place) and into the new threaded hole at the back.

 

[martinxxxxxx]

Another option:
Drill out the existing metal lug with a 4mm bit, so the 3.5mm screw will pass through easily.
Drill a 3mm hole in the back of the metal box in line with the lug (use the lug as a guide), then thread the hole.
Fit the faceplate using a long screw which passes through the lug (to keep it in the correct place) and into the new threaded hole at the back.

Go with this, great idea

 

[Taylortwocities]

Just mind the wires in the box don't get trapped by your long screws!

 

[TOUCHINGCLOTH]

thanks for all the responses. I actually went with the twisting of the lugs and then rethreading them. This appears to have done the job. so top jolly.