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Topic: Tighten external storage compartment screws. (Read 361 times) previous topic - next topic
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Tighten external storage compartment screws.
Arrived at my site today, went back to get out StarLink from the rear passenger external storage compartment, and it was open already.  Did I forget to lock it?  Sent a shiver down my spine hoping the StarLink dish was still there!

The dish was there, didn’t lose anything, except the screw that holds the lock tang.

So I thought I have an empty battery compartment that I can cannibalize, taking the screw and use it on the other compartment.  While attaching the tang with the cannibalized screw, noticed that the lock was in the locked position, meaning I did lock it, the screw came lose.

Lesson learned, periodically tighten all the storage bay locks, at least once a season.

And buy a spare lock assembly or two.
Dave

2017 TK
Re: Tighten external storage compartment screws.
Reply #1 –
As we all know, there's 100's and 100's of screws, nuts, and bolts on our LDs.   I routinely check what I consider the important ones.  For example, the connections in the electrical panel, the bolts securing the house to the frame, battery terminals, the electric steps, etc.   I've even checked the screws holding the license plates and in fact, one was recently loose.  On any given day, I can always find something that needs a bit of an adjustment.  Margee will sometimes tell me while I'm on a loose screw or bolt hunt that clearly "I have a screw loose!"  But I know for sure that most of my screws, nuts, and bolts are just fine.

Re: Tighten external storage compartment screws.
Reply #2 –
Good reminders!  Don’t forget to check the screws that secure the rear ladder.  Those are kinda important.
Greg & Victoria
2017 Mid-Bath  “Nocona” towing a manual 2015 Forester
Previously a 1985 TK
SKP #61264
Re: Tighten external storage compartment screws.
Reply #3 –
Quote from: HiLola  - 
Good reminders!  Don’t forget to check the screws that secure the rear ladder.  Those are kinda important.

Sure, but each of the six mount points for the ladder has four screws.   The compartment locks have a single point of failure
Dave

2017 TK
Re: Tighten external storage compartment screws.
Reply #4 –
I remember when Larry (Moderator) mentioned that he replaced their Grade 5 hitch bolts with Grade 8 bolts.  When I checked our Grade 5 bolts, several were distorted which got my attention!!.  The new Grade 8 bolts have remained in good condition and remain tight.  So more important items on the Nut, Bolt, & Screw checklist. 
Re: Tighten external storage compartment screws.
Reply #5 –
I recently saw this video (https://youtu.be/1BnK4a4aVpU) where they mentioned they had their ev plug melt because of lack of tightening of the screws. They went on to recomend tightening to a specific torque which they got this torque screwdriver: Sanliang Torque Screwdriver Wrench Driver Bits Set 10-70 Inch Pounds lbs for...

I was thinking of getting one, and now see that it would help with this kind of checks of screws. However does anyone know what's a common torque to tighten most items?

Oh also btw every time I see a loose screw I end up adding some threadlocker (Amazon.com: Permatex 24200 Medium Strength Threadlocker Blue, 6 ml : Automotive) I figured if I didn't tighten it enough, maybe this will help out :)
1995 23.5 Rear Lounge
Re: Tighten external storage compartment screws.
Reply #6 –
Inspired by Ed's post, I checked all of the box to frame bolts. All were locked up nice and tight with the exception of the most forward on the driver side. I got it to turn maybe a 64th or something. Anyhow, added to my checklist!
jor
09 27' MB
10  Suby Forester
Re: Tighten external storage compartment screws.
Reply #7 –
Thank you MajorTom;  Yes the blue thread lock goo is not permanent (don't use the red stuff!)  but is perfect for vibration situations that can loosen screws over time. The compartment lock, cam screws should have some thread lock compound.  RonB
RonB (Bostick) living in San Diego
Original owner of "Bluebelle" a '99 TKB
Re: Tighten external storage compartment screws.
Reply #8 –
Follow up.

I used the screw from my now empty battery bay to secure my passenger rear compartment, figured it was ok since it wasn’t holding anything.

WRONG

Shortly after getting up to highway speeds, about a hour later, noticed the door was flapping up and down in the wind.
Pulled over to a gas station and started to think how to secure it, thought of duct tape until I could get to a hardware store, but that was a last resort.

Went inside to the store, they had a tiny automotive section, but saw a battery terminal for a couple bucks that had two different sized screws, maybe one was the right size.  Yep, one was, but it was too long.  No problem, use the bolts that came with as spacers.

Bush fix complete, plus I have a spare screw and bolt now in case it happens again, which it shouldn’t as I will pickup some blue thread lock soon.
Dave

2017 TK
 
Re: Tighten external storage compartment screws.
Reply #9 –
Dave,

Nice fix. I carry a large assortment of nuts, bolts, screws, duct tape and velcro for emergency fixes.

Noticed my shore power cover flapping in the wind once. Cut several crescent shaped pieces (cats tongue and monkey fuzz) and placed them on the inside edges.

Has worked like a charm for several years now.

Kent
2015 27' RB "MissB.Haven"