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How can I put this letter box plate/flap back?

nicknack
Community Newcomer

How can I put this letter box plate/flap back?

Hello,

Would someone be able to tell me how I can reattach my letterbox access plate/flap. It's from around 1989 approx. Not sure what I could use to secure it. Any ideas?

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Noyade
Home Improvement Guru

Re: How can I put this letter box plate/flap back?

Afternoon @nicknack 

 

You have a similar letter box to mine. With your third photo down - it isn't clearly showing the large recessed area where the 'wire' is normally seen with the flap up.

I would carefully re-drill all the holes.

I believe they're around 4mm in diameter.

Work out the length required.

I used 3mm galvanised wire for the experiment. Bending one end slightly and then bending a generous loop - insert the bent end into one end.

Position the other end - and slowly force it into place by straightening out the wire.

It may not be perfectly straight but so long as the wire engages both ends - the hinge function will work.

 

Well, in theory anyway. 😁

 

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A more elaborate thought, is two bolts - grind the ends on a bench grinder to pin diameter.

Drill and tap a thread to both areas of the lid.

Test prior - then screw into position with the pin making both connections to the mail box frame.

Before you fully insert the bolts - a couple of drops of Lock-Tite so they don't undo over time.

 

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nicknack
Community Newcomer

Re: How can I put this letter box plate/flap back?

Thanks Noyade.

I think I'll try the first option. I really appreciate your help with this. 

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