2 Holes Stripped Out When Installing SmartPlug RV Power Inlet 50A Hookup On Travel Trailer

Updated 06/03/2026 | Published 05/27/2026

Question:

I have the 50 amp smart plug inlet and plug in. The inlet works great but while installing it as I was tightening the screws that hold it in place against the side of the camper 2 of the screw holes stripped out and I can’t get a tight seal. Any thoughts or suggestions on what I should do

asked by: Mike W

Expert Reply:

Hey Mike, thanks for your continued business, and sorry for your troubles.

The SmartPlug RV Power Inlet - 50 Amp - Black # SM56FR just has pass through holes so the part itself isn't stripped, so you'll need to focus more on the RV wall side of things if that makes sense. That is where the bolt holes are that are getting stripped or too large so that the screws aren't staying in.

A few solutions come to mind. One solution, which is probably the best, is to use some wood filler or some type of epoxy that is safe for the siding of your camper. Then once the holes are filled in on the camper, you can drill small holes that are slightly smaller than the screws, so that the screws have something to bite into.

A second option, easiest one by far, is to just go to the hardware store with the old hardware and find some screws that are slightly bigger, but not so big as to where they damage the connector bolt holes. I'd just go slightly larger in diameter where they can fill the stripped hole better.

A third option, which is kind of up in the air, is to put bolts through the holes instead of screws, then put washer and nut on the inside of the wall to keep the bolts from coming out. I think this would depend on the RV and it may not be doable.

Let me know what you think. Hope this helps Mike.

expert reply by: Andrew N

Brett C.

6/3/2026

I had the same issue with the screws. I used slightly larger diameter screws and filled holes with adhesive caulk prior to screwing down with bigger screws; been on for months now and still snug.