Taillight lens cover screws

[starplee]

This may sound stupid, but I've been everywhere, to include emailing Thor. I replaced a taillight lens cover on a 2017 Thor Chateau 31W, because when I backed out the old screws, the cover cracked. I went to put new screws (longer) in the new taillight lens cover and the recommended screw's head is too large to fit into the countersunk hole of the lens cover. Where does one get screws to go into the taillight lens cover? And please don't say Camping World!

[ducksface]

You really contacted Thor over a tail-light screw?

Easy ways:
Put screw between finger and thumb.
Rub it on sandpaper/ fingernail file in a fashion that reduces the head diameter

Or

If you're capable, put the screw, point first, into a power drill and use the sidewalk/concrete/brick to grind the head to fit.


Or



Use the worthless file part of a fingernail clipper to enlarge the tapered hole in the tail-light

Easier ways:
Take the original screw to home depot or 1,000 others. Use it to gauge the screw you buy there.

Or

Just install the bigger head and call it a day.

Or

Fill original hole with gorilla glue or hot glue.(insert your choice here of waterproof-ish glue). Insert original screw before or after the glue dries.

[Grumpy Grampa]

Ace Hardware or True Value

[Sappy2]

If you are missing the hole size in the lens by just a little, then "by hand" ream the hole with a drill bit assuming there is sufficient lens "meat" to allow a larger hole. Finding the correct screw can be more challenging than adjusting the lens hole.

[16ACE27]

The only thing I have to add is get Stainless Steel screws.

[Scubawise]

I only go the ACE

[craigd853]

Originally Posted by starplee

This may sound stupid, but I've been everywhere, to include emailing Thor. I replaced a taillight lens cover on a 2017 Thor Chateau 31W, because when I backed out the old screws, the cover cracked. I went to put new screws (longer) in the new taillight lens cover and the recommended screw's head is too large to fit into the countersunk hole of the lens cover. Where does one get screws to go into the taillight lens cover? And please don't say Camping World!

Sir any hardware store should be able to help you. Also remember to replace with stainless steel that way they won't rust.

[10scDust]

Originally Posted by Sappy2

If you are missing the hole size in the lens by just a little, then "by hand" ream the hole with a drill bit assuming there is sufficient lens "meat" to allow a larger hole. Finding the correct screw can be more challenging than adjusting the lens hole.

In my experience; run the drill bit in reverse when drilling plastic item and stuff like plexiglass. Less prone to crack the piece while drilling a hole in it.
I know, I know, just try it!

[starplee]

I didn't consider widening the hole on the lens cover, and I am using stainless steel screws. I will give the widening of the holes an attempt. Thank you all for your input.

[PaulH]

I changed any screws I could see with stainless steel screws, I never can understand why manufacturers don't use them, the cost wouldn't be more than $50 per vehicle surely...?As for the light lenses, they must be properly sealed before replacement. Mine were soaking wet underneath. I used larger headed stainless screws, looks much better.