How to Fix a Stripped Screw Hole in Metal: Easy Steps and Practical Tips

Have you ever been fixing something and found that the screw just keeps turning, spinning loose without grabbing? That’s usually because the screw hole is stripped—especially tricky when it’s metal! But don’t worry, this guide will walk you through several simple, practical ways to fix a stripped screw hole in metal. The steps are easy enough for anyone to follow, and I’ll share a few personal stories and unique tips along the way. By the end, you’ll be able to tighten screws with confidence again.

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How Do You Fix a Screw Hole That Is Too Big in Metal?

When a screw hole is too big, the screw threads don’t catch right and just spin. Here are some common ways to fix this:

1. Use a Larger or Longer Screw

Sometimes the easiest fix is just to get a screw that’s a little bigger or longer. The bigger threads will grip the hole tight. I remember once trying this on an old metal bracket—I just swapped the screw for a slightly thicker one, and it held perfectly after that.

2. Fill the Hole with a Metal Epoxy or Putty

If you want to keep the same size screw, you can fill the hole with a special metal repair epoxy (like JB Weld). Here’s how:

• Clean the hole well to remove grease and debris.

• Mix and apply the epoxy inside the hole.

• Insert the screw while the epoxy is still wet (put a bit of Vaseline on the screw threads so it won’t stick to the epoxy).

• Let the epoxy cure fully (usually 24 hours).

• Unscrew carefully—now the hole will have a new “thread” for the screw to grip onto.

I used this trick on a loose panel of my camping stove once and it made the hole good as new!

3. Drill and Tap the Hole for a Threaded Insert

For a more permanent fix, you can:

• Drill out the hole to the right size with a drill bit.

• Use a tap to cut new threads inside the hole.

• Insert a helicoil or threaded insert that matches your screw size.

• Screw into the insert for a strong hold.

This is perfect for load-bearing parts or thicker metals. It’s a bit more involved but very effective. I tried this in my garage for a heavy toolbox mount, and it worked like a charm.

4. Use Copper Wire or Other Fillers

Another handy hack is:

• Twist thin copper wire tightly and stuff it into the hole.

• Then screw in normally—the wire fills the gap for the threads to bite.
  This is quick and surprisingly strong for small repairs.

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How to Make a Stripped Screw Hole Tight Again?

Step-by-Step Simple Fix Using Epoxy Putty:

• Step 1: Clean the hole and remove any rust or debris.

• Step 2: Rough up the surface around the hole a bit with sandpaper for better adhesion.

• Step 3: Mix the epoxy putty as per instructions.

• Step 4: Fill the hole with the epoxy putty.

• Step 5: Coat screw threads lightly with Vaseline (to prevent sticking to epoxy).

• Step 6: Push the screw into the hole filled with epoxy and let it cure.

• Step 7: After curing, unscrew slowly. The hole should hold tight.

This technique saved my car’s battery terminal cover mount. It was stripped, but after epoxy repair, the screw held firmly for years.

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How to Undo a Stripped Screw from Metal?

Removing a stripped screw can be tricky because the screwdriver won’t grip anymore. Here are some tricks:

• Rubber Band Trick: Place a wide rubber band over the screw head, then press the screwdriver firmly to get a better grip.

• Use a Screw Extractor: These special bits drill into the screw head and grip it to remove the screw.

• Manual Impact Driver: Tap a manual screwdriver with a hammer to lodge it into the screw head, then turn.

• Left-Handed Drill Bit: Drill into the screw in reverse to help unscrew it.

I once spent an entire afternoon getting a stripped screw out of a metal bike frame. The rubber band method worked great for me!

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How Do You Fill Screw Holes in Metal?

When you need to fill screw holes in metal before repainting or refastening, try these methods:

• Metal Bonding Adhesive or Epoxy: Fill the hole, let it cure, then sand smooth. Ideal for small to medium holes.

• Solder or Welding: Fill holes with solder or weld metal for a strong, permanent fix. Requires special tools and skills.

• Metal Patch with Adhesive: Attach a thin metal patch over the hole with metal adhesive or rivets for structural fixes.

For car panels, I used solder to fill screw holes before repainting. It created a super smooth finish after sanding.

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Unique Insights and Tips

• Always clean and dry the hole before any repair to improve adhesion and thread holding.

• If you’re using epoxy or any adhesive, prevent the screw from sticking by applying a light coating of Vaseline or oil on the screw threads.

• For bolts under strain or vibration, mechanical thread inserts (like helicoils) are best for lasting strength.

• Sometimes it’s easier to drill a new hole nearby if repair gets too complicated.

• When in doubt, bigger screws almost always solve the spinning problem—but watch for metal thickness.

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Personal Anecdotes

I once stripped a screw hole on a metal bike rack just as I was about to hang my new basket. Instead of buying new parts, I filled the hole with epoxy putty, pushed the screw in, and after a day’s cure, it held so well that the rack has supported heavy loads for years.

Another time, working on my old car’s license plate bracket, I drilled and tapped the hole to a larger size and installed a threaded insert. It was a bit of work, but now I never worry about loose screws.

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Summary of Fixes for Stripped Screw Holes in Metal

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Fixing stripped screw holes in metal is a common issue, but now you have several easy and effective ways to solve it, whether you want a quick fix or a permanent repair. Remember to work safely, and if the project feels too complex, don’t hesitate to ask a professional. Happy fixing!

If you want, I can also create a handy illustrated step-by-step tutorial or photo guide for these methods. Just let me know!