Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

[JimS123]

Obviously, replacing the screw with a larger one would work, but in this case the fitting won't take a larger one without drilling. So, what's an easy fix?

 

[convergent]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

I'm interested in this too... looking forward to seeing some suggestions.

 

[MTboatguy]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

If you have access to the back side, then replace the screw with a SS bolt, with a washer and nut on the back side, I have done this several time in the past...if not, then look at the various types of nutserts on the market, and you might be able to find one that will work on your application. I have used rubber nutserts in the past, that when you tighten down the bolt they expand to bind the item into place.

 

[Thad]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

I'm not saying this is the correct way to do it, but I have done this;

Fill to holes with an epoxy and let cure. Lightly sanded the area smooth. Drilled a pilot hole and installed the screw.

I am sure there are other ways, or different materials to use to fill the holes, but it worked for me.

 

[Todd157k]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

Helical inserts (Heli Coil). Then switch the screws to machine screws.

 

[ajgraz]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

I'm not saying this is the correct way to do it, but I have done this;

Fill to holes with an epoxy and let cure. Lightly sanded the area smooth. Drilled a pilot hole and installed the screw.

I am sure there are other ways, or different materials to use to fill the holes, but it worked for me.

This is what I usually do, either with Marine-Tex or a filled epoxy ("peanut butter") recipe.

Does depend on what the component you are attaching is, though. Is it something dinky like a pad eye? Or something substantial like a cleat, bimini mount or antenna mount that really should be thru-bolted anyway?

 

[JimS123]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

This is what I usually do, either with Marine-Tex or a filled epoxy ("peanut butter") recipe.

Does depend on what the component you are attaching is, though. Is it something dinky like a pad eye? Or something substantial like a cleat, bimini mount or antenna mount that really should be thru-bolted anyway?

That was my idea as well. I thought Marine-Tex stayed pliable, so I thought a more rigid epoxy would be better. Any recommendations for a brand name?

A few of the screws are merely trim, so its not an issue. But one of the parts is a swing out step to get on the cuddy front deck thru the center windshield section. There is no rear access.

 

[rwidman]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

nevermind

 

[ajgraz]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

Marine-Tex is a filled epoxy (fillers ready-mixed-in for convenience...that why it co$ts so much ) and does harden up. It is perfect for the job.

As to the swing-out step, I know anything my bulk is stepping on better be through-bolted! Is there a way to make rear access, even if you gotta cut a hatch hole? Or maybe lose the step, fill the holes and get a step stool?

 

[dockwrecker]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

I make a paste of epoxy and steel wool. mix it up, pack it in there and reinstall the screw while wet. Marine tex works also.

 

[jdlough]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

For the swing-out step mount, since you don't have access to the backside, how about this thing and a 1/4" bolt....

http://www.iboats.com/1-4-Size-20-Anchor-Garelick/dm/*******.371316630--**********.243737112--view_id.66162

 

[Beefer]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

I'd suggest that before you just replace/modify where the screw was, figure out why the screw failed. If it was a simple matter of over-tightening, then no biggie. But, if it failed because water softened the backing (assuming plywood core), then I'd also try and correct the water problem, otherwise it will happen again, only quicker.

MarineTex is the way I would go on this, it hardens and acts like wood when it's dry. Another option is the plastic thingys for screwing into drywall. I've heard they work well, and it's quicker than any epoxy out there, and if there is no water/rot issue with the substrate, you should be done in about 5 minutes.

 

[ajgraz]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

For the swing-out step mount, since you don't have access to the backside, how about this thing and a 1/4" bolt....

http://www.iboats.com/1-4-Size-20-Anchor-Garelick/dm/*******.371316630--**********.243737112--view_id.66162

Wow, those look a**-kickingly cool. I wonder if anyone on the forum has used these and can post a review?

 

[Stachi]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

Wow, those look a**-kickingly cool. I wonder if anyone on the forum has used these and can post a review?

I have used them plenty of times for installing shelving racks over drywall....many thumbs up for them !!

 

[dockwrecker]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

Much faster than toggle bolts, use those all the time too.

 

[backyard mechanic]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

For the "trim" parts and pieces I've had good luck using wood toothpicks jammed/hammered into the hole filled with silicone. Then I put the same screw put back in. Seals the hole so no water gets in and the wood product filler absorbs the sealant moisture and tightens the screw further. You may find that you will need a smaller screw if you stuff too much wood in.

For giggles I tried putting marine tex in a screw hole and running the screw back in it. The screw will come out once the marine tex dries. (I lost a bet on that one!) The problem I found with this idea is the hole seems to elongate before the epoxy dries; then you have the same problem.

The toothpick idea idea works on home repairs too (just delete the silicone and use water base wood glue).

 

[rwidman]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

I make a paste of epoxy and steel wool. mix it up, pack it in there and reinstall the screw while wet. Marine tex works also.

I would reconsider that for use on a boat.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

I have 25 or so #10 oval head screws that hold my fuel tank access hatch in place. Had 10 or so screws that where stripped out so I followed the direction on the Marine -Tex website. Worked like a charm.

Drill a slightly oversized hole, slightly shorter than the new fastener, to remove any soft or deteriorated material. Clean debris from the hole. Apply a little penetrating oil or a silicone spray (like WD-40) to the new fastener to act as a release agent; wipe off excess film. Mix Marine-Tex and fill the hole 3/4ths deep. Apply a small amount of Marine Tex to the fastener, being sure to fill in around the threads. With a slight twisting motion, insert the fastener in to the hole and allow the epoxy to cure for the full 24 hours. Marine-Tex will have the threads cast into it, and the fastener can be backed out if necessary. A wrench or a screwdriver with a little extra elbow grease may be needed the very first time the re-inserted fastener is removed since it will stick the first time it is backed out.

 

[dockwrecker]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

I would reconsider that for use on a boat.

You're thinking rust I know. Covered in epoxy stops that. It's a trick I learned from ski racing when we'd pull a binding out of a ski. Never rusts.

 

[JimS123]

Re: Fixing Loose Screws in Fiberglass

You're thinking rust I know. Covered in epoxy stops that. It's a trick I learned from ski racing when we'd pull a binding out of a ski. Never rusts.

I use steel wool in an industrial water pumping system that I often work on. We use SS steel wool. Problem solved.