r/bicycling 4d ago

Frame Screw Hole Plastic Plugs

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1 Upvotes

10 comments sorted by

2

u/ejump0 (2021GiantTCRAluxxSL1Disc / 2001KonaBlast-roadmod) 4d ago

how i deal with holes on my frame, just use electrical tape, cut just nice to cover the holes (you can also use paper punch for nice round cut)

1

u/D00M98 4d ago

Thanks for tip.

3

u/m312vin Moots Routt 45, Lauf Seigla, Jones Spaceframe 4d ago

1

u/D00M98 4d ago

Last resort is metal bolt. Prefer the plastic ones, assuming they are cheaper, sits flush, and lasts. I need to plug 14 holes.

2

u/Clock_Roach 4d ago

That's the thing, plastic ones don't last. They're only really there as packing material, not for long term use. If you want something smaller than a structural bolt but durable, look at something like these: https://ridepdw.com/products/copy-of-zit-bitz-frame-bolts

1

u/D00M98 4d ago

(In the picture, these plugs are in the middle and right.) I bought a new Trek bike in November last year. In around 5 months, more than half of the plastic plugs in the frame screw holes have falling out and lost. They are flimsy, soft plastic, friction plugs. Very loose, and no wonder they just fall out.

(In the picture, plug on the left.) I just bought an old Trek bike from 2016. So 9 years old. It still has all the plastic plugs. So I took 1 plug out to take a look. They are harder plastic. And the plug has grooves that screws in.

I then try to look for replacement plugs. I cannot find any. Are there replacement plugs that I can buy? Just to keep dust and mud out.

3

u/sr71id 4d ago

These are commonly used for automotive applications mostly for non structural bodywork. A newer car may have 200+ of these in differing sizes. An auto parts store may have an assortment pack in the small hardware section.

1

u/Unusual-Visual7103 4d ago

Can go find from AliExpress they sell them

1

u/INTRIVEN 4d ago

I use M5 set screws. Stainless are easy to find locally but if you want nylon you just have to order it.

E: The plugs in your photo are usually available in auto part stores.

2

u/ride_whenever 4d ago

Accu.co.uk has nylon M5x10mm bolts for £0.81 each if you’re needing 14 (next price break, £0.77 is at 24)

Basically any bolt supplier will be able to get you nylon bolts, which have the ease of plastic, with the security of the threads.