Small question - Screwing in tail lights

[Alfred]

Hey Gang,

I am attaching these recessed tail lights to 1/2" plywood. There are three holes for screws on the flange of each light (see pictures). Should I just screw exterior screws into the wood, or should I drill holes and use nuts/bolts?





Thanks,

AL in Asheville

[aggie79]

Al,
Your teardrop is really starting to come together very nice. I had the same question too. My options are: add another thickness of plywood as blocking and use wood screws (actually probably sheet metal screws) or bolts and nylock nuts. I'm also wondering if I use the bolt option, do I need some sort of access panel on the interior.
Tom

[Juneaudave]

Al...I don't think there isn't a wrong answer here...either is ok. If it were me, I would probably just use round head stainless steel screws as I can't see a need for a bolt for a taillight with that type of mounting flange. Whether you use bolts or screws, before you mount the lights "permanent", be sure to seal the taillight holes in the ply with something and use a dab of 3M 5200 sealent or similar for the screw or bolt holes so you don't give water a chance to get in.

[Arne]

some type of sealant and screws... there is very little stress to deal with.

[dh]

another option, I've never used them for this application, but I'm sure it would work.

Lowes and Home Depot both sell threaded inserts for wood. Drill a hole, tap them in (they have claws to hold them in) and you have a nice durable metal insert for your screws.

[Alfred]

another option, I've never used them for this application, but I'm sure it would work.

Lowes and Home Depot both sell threaded inserts for wood. Drill a hole, tap them in (they have claws to hold them in) and you have a nice durable metal insert for your screws.

Yes, These are nice, we used them for the license tag!

Al in Asheville

[cokebottle10]

Hey Al,

I would use #8 x 1 SS screws. Predrill the holes with a very small bit. The lights are mounted in 1/2 ply and the screws should hold them just fine. Please keep in mind the LED lights will look different if they are not aligned the same. Also if those LED lights stop working you will have to replace them. You can not fix them. I would get one more just in case that happened.

Thanks,
David.

[doug hodder]

If you do install them using a nut and bolt technique as opposed to a screw, make sure you have access behind it to remove it, or use a T nut so that the light can be removed after the project is finished. I'd do screws and a dab of sealant behind the flange. Doug