Introduction
Have you tried putting screws into your chassis, except the screw won’t tighten at all? That can be very frustrating and risk the durability of your RC.
If you’re concerned, you must have wondered- how to fix a stripped-out screw hole in plastic?
The answer lies in 4 very easy steps. To fill up the hole, use epoxy and then screw the screw back in. Once the epoxy hardens, the screw will remain secure in its place. If you don’t want to use epoxy, there are other easy options available too.
However, if you have the time, this simple guide will show you all the details you need.
So, go ahead and dive right in.
Why Is It Important To Fix A Stripped-out Screw Hole In Plastic?
Even before fixing this hole, you must know why it is important. Be it a roller car or a completely built RC car, any stripped-out hole spells trouble.
If you don’t fix them, the screws will not sit securely. This is extremely risky for the parts located in the chassis. As you keep using your RC car, the impact causes the screws to loosen and jiggle in their holes.
If no fixing is done, then eventually, the screws won’t hold anything together. Consequently, this will jeopardize the structural integrity of the RC car.
For the chassis, the dangers are the highest. This is because if you don’t fix the stripped out-holes, your amazing RC shocks and tires may face permanent damage.
Now that we know the importance of fixing the stripped-out holes, let’s get to fixing them!
How Can You Repair A Plastic Screw Hole That Has Been Stripped Out? (4 Simple Steps)
A stripped-out screw hole can really be problematic at times. However, as complex as it can be, it can be resolved in four basic steps.
Tools For The Job
But before you get started, you’ll need a few basic tools. Most of this is readily available and some are lying around your house.
Here’s what you need:
- Some putty-based epoxy,
- A small card to mix and scrape,
- A screwdriver.
- Lastly, some latex gloves for safety. You don’t want to touch epoxy with bare hands as that’s dangerous.
You can also use hand gloves for your own safety. Use the ones that can be worn while removing a stuck set screw.
Well now that you have your tools, it’s time to get fixing!
Step 1 of 4: Measure And Mix The Epoxy
Take a small amount of epoxy and mix it really well with the card. Make sure your epoxy has an overall smooth consistency with no lumps. Knead it for 5 to 10 minutes to achieve that consistency.
Make sure you have enough epoxy on hand to protect every inch of the hole. Better safe than sorry.
Step 2 of 4: Fill In The Screw Hole With The Epoxy
After the epoxy has been mixed, cover the screw hole with it. Make sure you push as much epoxy into the hole as possible. In order to cover all crevices, this is the wisest course of action.
If there’s excess epoxy sticking out, don’t scrape it just yet. Wait for a bit.
Step 3 of 4: Cover Your Screw And Screw It Into The Hole
Cover your screws with a neutral agent. Something like Teflon tape makes sure your screw does not bond to the epoxy. Good old Vaseline will do the same job in a pinch.
Place the screw back into place gently and cautiously after it has been covered. Keep pushing the screw in and make sure it’s nice and tight. While screwing holes in plastic, don’t tighten it too hard or else cracks may form.
Step 4 of 4: Scrape The Excess And Let It Cure
As you put the screw back in, the excess epoxy will come out from the sides. Use the card to scrape the excess of the epoxy. And make sure to make it as smooth as possible.
Let the epoxy cure now. Wait till the recommended time mentioned on the package. Your screw should be secured and the hole should be fixed.
Are There Alternatives For Epoxy?
If working with epoxy sounds a little daunting to you, then fear not. A strong glue will do the job just right. You just need to make sure that the glue dries completely before you screw back in.
If you’re unsure whether to use JB-Weld or Gorilla Glue, don’t worry. All of these would provide you with the intended results.
If you’re opting to use glue, take a look at some of our highly recommended options:
| Product 1 | |
| Product 2 |
We’re sure you’ll find something that fits your agenda. Now, you can easily fix a stripped hole in the plastic.
FAQs
Question: Can I use superglue in a pinch?
Answer: Yes you can. If you’re using superglue, make sure you don’t overtighten the screws, or else cracks may form.
Question: Can I screw into plastic?
Answer: Directly screwing into plastic will cause the plastic to crack. That’s why you need to drill a pilot hole and then drill the screw in. Keep in mind that the pilot hole should be the same length as the screw.
Question: Can you fix a screw hole that is too big?
Answer: If the hole is too big, then place a toothpick into the hole. You could also use a piece of zip tie in place of wood. Then drill your screw right back in. The added material should narrow the hole enough for your screw to sit in securely.
Wrapping Up
Well, that concludes the article. Now you know all about how to fix a stripped-out screw hole in plastic.
If our guide helped you out, leave us a comment below.
Till then, say goodbye to holes!
