socket screws

[aidsy]

can any1 help took socket of for decerating, when going to screw back on i have noticed one the the tags has broken off and is now missing, its a metal clad socket and brick wall. iam sure u guys have came across this b4 whats my best route to go down?

thanks

 

[sparkwright]

i assume you mean the box is flushed into the wall.
i assume you cannot replace the box without causing damage to the decorating.
sometimes you can get a similar new box, remove the lug and fit it to the old box.
was the old lug adjustable do you think ie moved up and down?
another way, depending on the design of the box, is to drill a 3 mm hole through the back of the box. rethread the hole with a 3.5 mm re-threader (from electrical wholesaler, not B&Queue) and use a longer 3.5 screw or extension screw.
a re-threader is cheap enough but use it gently, they can snap in the hole if you're not careful.

 

[sparkwright]

if you need to shorten screws make sure the end is then filed smoothly as a rough stubby end can ruin the fixing hole.

 

[EdwardCurrent]

Hello.

Is it one of these boxes ?
http://www.tlc-direct.co.uk/Images/Products/size_3/AP665.JPG

If so, then it may well be non fixed lug which has popped out. Buy another box and remove the lug by slightly bending the holding retaining lugs. (Have a good look how it fits, tightness etc first).With the power OFF, you can fiddle about getting it into your box.
If its the fixed lug then I have seen the back of the box drilled and threaded, but maybe buying the correct drill bit and taps etc then you may as well just dig the box out carefully and replace the whole thing. Lets face it, you've already got your decorating gear out. .

Ed

 

[GaryMo]

if you need to shorten screws make sure the end is then filed smoothly as a rough stubby end can ruin the fixing hole.

 

[mikhailfaradayski]

if you need to shorten screws make sure the end is then filed smoothly as a rough stubby end can ruin the fixing hole.

oh-oh, what have you said!!!

This could be a 10-pager

 

[^woody^]

Can someone tell me the best way to cut one of these screws?

I understand it is not as simple as snipping it or cutting it with a hacksaw