I am replacing a ceiling fixture the holes for mounting the bracket are stripped
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How to repair a fixture box when the holes for mounting the bracket are stripped © By: Dave Rongey |
Repairing a Light Fixture Box
[ad#block]Electrical Question: My town home was built in the early 1970’s. I am replacing a ceiling fixture in the kitchen. The junction box appears to be made of a pressed wood fiber material and the holes for mounting the bracket are stripped out. Is this repairable and if so how? I would have to hire someone to replace the junction box if that is the only solution.
This electrical question came from: Suzette, from Decatur, Georgia
See more about Home Wiring for Georgia
Dave The Electrician’s Reply:
Thanks for your electrical question Suzette
Replacing a Ceiling Fixture
How to repair a fixture box when the holes for mounting the bracket are stripped
- When an electrical box for a light fixture has holes that are stripped out you have a few options to prevent a costly electrical repair bill.
- Use a Tri-Tap tool to dress up the threads or make the hole one size larger, such as go from a 6-32 to am 8-32 hole.
- A Tri-Tap is a threading tool that has the three most common screw threads, 6-32, 8-32, 10-32 and other 24 thread sizes as well on the opposite end of a reversible shaft.
- The tool looks is about the size of a screw driver.
- With some non-metal boxes a slightly larger wood screw may be used, this also works with some receptacle outlet boxes where the threads are stripped out.
- With non metal boxes you could take tooth picks, dip them in wood glue and insert them into the holes, then when the glue is dry re-tap the holes or use wood screws.
- NOTE
- These repairs may work for fixtures that are NOT heavy, however if the light fixture is heavy then the fixture box may need to be replaced.
- Heavy light fixtures and ceiling fans require special boxes which are rated for the weight of the fixture being installed.
More about Electrical Boxes
Home Electrical Junction Boxes
Electrical Junction Boxes for Home Wiring
Understanding electrical junction boxes and what they are used for. Home electrical wiring is the process of installing electrical wire to a location that will serve electrical devices or an appliance. One very important component is the box where the wire will be installed. The type and size of the home wiring electrical boxes will depend upon the circuit size, application and its location.
How to Install Kitchen Electrical Wiring
Kitchen Electrical Wiring
Fully Explained Photos and Wiring Diagrams for Kitchen Electrical Wiring with Code Requirements for most new or remodel projects.
Lighting For The Home
Lighting Electrical Codes
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