Stripped thread in switchbox

[obobsmith]

Help guys i've stripped/crossed the thread in a switch box can I fix it, bought long screws to allow for tile and now can't get it done up. Its a plastic box with what i presume to be brass threaded insert's.:helpsmilie:

 

[Thespanishtiler]

dry lineing box
the tabs can be removed and replaced if you know the make
or try to rethread them with a rethreading tool (screwfix)

 

[DHTiling]

You can get a socket re-threader from Trade tiler..


Re-Threader for Electrical Boxes


3.5 mm tap for re-threading electrical boxes

Now and again you will find the thread in the electric socket box all chewed up. If you try winding a new screw in it just strips the thread. Clean it out and re-thread the box with this easy to use tool




Price: £3.82 £4.39 Including VAT at 15%

 

[Richardk]

You can get a socket re-threader from Trade tiler..


Re-Threader for Electrical Boxes


3.5 mm tap for re-threading electrical boxes

Now and again you will find the thread in the electric socket box all chewed up. If you try winding a new screw in it just strips the thread. Clean it out and re-thread the box with this easy to use tool




Price: £3.82 £4.39 Including VAT at 15%

Will this also re-thread the brass inserts in plastic back boxes?

 

[DHTiling]

I don't see why not as long as the plastic insert doesn't break away whilst you re-thread it..

 

[stevee]

wow ,i gotta get one, that could save some grief havin one in yer bag

 

[Alan.P]

I have one, not used often but invaluable when you do need it 😀

 

[doug boardley]

I've got one, as above, not used often, but a damned useful bit of kit

 

[White Room]

As above

 

[The Legend; Phil Hobson RIP]

As above, think I need a bigger van, used to carry all my tools in a canvas bag. Now I have a built in safe, the rest of the van is full of buckets full of tools. Progress?

 

[CJ]

Very handy for keeping in ya toolbox

 

[Colour Republic]

If it's a plasterboard backbox (i.e plastic) then just replace the whole box, if you have tiled over the face meaning that you can't replace it then replace the tap, push the tap all the way to the back then pull inwards (you might need a screwdriver to pop it out) if none of the above work then rethread it with the tooll above

are you sure it's the box that has threaded and not the screw? also the little brass nuts in the tab can sometimes come loose and spin in the tab meaning you have no option but to replace

If it is spining or threaded you can sometimes angle the screw so it grabs and will tighten but sadly some poor sod will never be able to undo it after you:mad2:

 

[obobsmith]

Thank's guys as expected you came up trumps bought the tool ran it through but still only got so far ( brass insert was spinning ), feeling brave I popped out the tab as per colours instructions used the tool from the other side and bob's yer auntie the screw ran through no problem magic wee tool, job done money in the bank and a happy punter. Thanks again guys