1975 Sovereign Stripped Out Hinge Screws

[thefraze1020]

Hi,

Earlier today I opened the door of my trailer and noticed that it seemed to be binding a little bit. Upon looking closer, the hinges were slightly loose where they mount to the body. I tried tightening the screws but two wouldn't tighten at all, and two would not loosen at all. So, I was able to get one screw out, and then went to the hardware store to get 4 new marine grade stainless 1/4"-20 machine screws.

After I got home, I tried running a tap into the hole to clean the threads. At first it went in smooth but eventually is was just loose and spinning. Obviously something is not right in the holes for the hinge screws. Has anyone had this issue and have any ideas of what I should do next?

[Aerowood]

The screws have nuts on them and then smeared with sealant. The only access is behind the interior panels. You can drill large holes in the panel for access. It's a poor design.

[CRH]

I just did mine a month or so ago. I removed the trim that goes around the door frame inside. I measured and drilled the holes to access the nuts, but found they had so much sealant on them that removal through such a small hole was gonna be nearly impossible. I ended up cutting a larger access hole. I just made sure it was long and narrow so the trim would cover it up.