Loose self-tapping machine screw

[Thump553]

I was doing end of season maintenance on my snowblower part of which involved removing a sheet metal panel held on by four self-tapping machine screws. When I reassembled it three snugged up fine but the other keeps turning (I took care not to overtighten it but who knows).

Any ideas on how to repair this so that screw doesn't fall out from the vibrations of the snowblower?

 

[PottedMeat]

hex lock nut + screw + washers?

you can get lock nuts in those trays above screws/nuts/bolts at home depot/lowes

if you have a problem with the way that looks, get the next size up self tapping machine screw

 

[Howard]

Sounds like the female thread form got damaged. If you have access to the back end, replace it with a regular screw with nut. Drill it out if you have to.

EDIT: If you have an extra pair of locking pliers or a C-clamp, you can use that temporarily, but be warned: temporary usually means permanent, if it works.

 

[Thump553]

Trouble is once I put this panel on the thing forms a closed box-so no way to hold the nut.

Would something like locktight work?

 

[SpatiallyAware]

Sounds like it's just a panel cover situation, where it's going into sheetmetal?


In that case, drill out the hole in the panel for a self tapping screw one size up and force it into the 'stripped' backing plate.

 

[Howard]

Depending on the thickness of the metal, you might also be able to use a captive nut that grips sheet metal.

Drilling it out is probably the easiest solution, though.

EDIT: Plastic push pins could also work, like on a car.

 

[Thump553]

Perfect, thanks SpatiallyAware. That's exactly what it is, it's a panel on the bottom of the snowblower. Good common sense answer that didn't dawn for me.