Belly pan panel problem

[Boogieshoes]

Was under our 2016 Classic yesterday and noticed this panel was protruding; popped off a screw; could not push it back up even with some force. Any idea what this might be? Is just inboard of the left rear wheel well.

http://www.airforums.com/forums/atta...1&d=1487363043

[james.mileur]

If that is on the port side, I bet is an access panel for plumbing works.

[Dingo Girl]

So is port side streetside or curbside? Not a boater so I haven't a clue.

[james.mileur]

Port = Left = Road; all four letters long, isn't that nice. Now I see the hose, road side. Probably where you can get to the waste tank(s) gate valves. The problem with sheet metal screws is they work great if you don't torque them past snug, lest you need a larger screw next time.

[MelGoddard]

Originally Posted by Dingo Girl

So is port side streetside or curbside? Not a boater so I haven't a clue.

PORT=LEFT=ROAD SIDE. (RED MARKER LIGHT FOR AVIATION AND MARINE.)
STARBOARD=RIGHT=CURB. (GREEN MARKER LIGHT FOR ABOVE.)

[Betty Farmer]

Passenger vs driver side makes it much simpler.

[Royce]

Originally Posted by Betty Farmer

Passenger vs driver side makes it much simpler.

driver side, what country? Port and starboard, reduce ambiguity.

[Boxite]

RED/LEFT/PORT
...each have fewer letters than...
GREEN/RIGHT/STARBOARD.

[james.mileur]

So Boogieshoes, I'd take another screw out across the panel from the one popped out, go to a good hardware store with those hardware assortment drawers, find an exact size and material copy, them buy another few of the next size up in diameter, same length. Try first the exact size replacement, then use the larger one if needed. Careful buying longer/bigger, lest you poke something inside. A toothpick poke first can tell you if there is anything to hit deeper in. Sheet metal screws don't need Gorilla torque, maybe Llama torque.

[Boxite]

Boogieshoes, there's a simple answer to the problem. It's called "sheet metal nuts" or "Tinnerman" nuts or "Speed nuts".

They are sheet metal squares with a punched-hole to receive the original sized screw. (If you keep raising the size of the screw you'll only make the hole larger and large until it becomes a larger problem.)

Some sheet metal nuts are not simply flat, but are U-shaped...such that they will clip onto the structure above and remain in place, while you reinstall the original screw.
Speed nuts are available at most neighborhood auto parts stores and at that employer-of-American-cashiers.... Harbor Freight.

[cwf]

A little larger screw will grab the metal better. Put a dab of sealant between the screw head and the panel (don't fill in the screw head).. I use the BLUE "Loctite" on threads or just around the heads of this type of application.. Just don't get the Loctite on the 'threads'... It will provide just enough grab to hold during the vibrations seen during tow.

You may consider adding an additional screw between existing ones on the side loosening up...that will help dampen vibrations and keep stuff tidy..

[MelGoddard]

Originally Posted by Boxite

Boogieshoes, there's a simple answer to the problem. It's called "sheet metal nuts" or "Tinnerman" nuts or "Speed nuts".

They are sheet metal squares with a punched-hole to receive the original sized screw. (If you keep raising the size of the screw you'll only make the hole larger and large until it becomes a larger problem.)

Some sheet metal nuts are not simply flat, but are U-shaped...such that they will clip onto the structure above and remain in place, while you reinstall the original screw.
Speed nuts are available at most neighborhood auto parts stores and at that employer-of-American-cashiers.... Harbor Freight.

I would use the 'tinnerman' nuts. They are a good bet. Put some rustproofing on the screws and nuts, before installing.

[A W Warn]

Originally Posted by Boogieshoes

Was under our 2016 Classic yesterday and noticed this panel was protruding; popped off a screw; could not push it back up even with some force. Any idea what this might be? Is just inboard of the left rear wheel well.

http://www.airforums.com/forums/atta...1&d=1487363043

I would take the trailer back to the dealer for repair if it is still under warranty.
If it's an access panel, nothing should be holding it down.