Chosen Solution
I have a Whirlpool French Door Refrigerator (Model WRF535SMBM) and ever since I got it 3 years ago, the bottom freezer door handle is wobbly. And yes, I’ve tried tighten the set screw on it and that’s not the issue. The issue instead is that the mounting screw that the handle attaches to is loose (photo of the mounting screw below). https://www.genuinereplacementparts.com/… I’ve taken the mounting screw off and can see that the cavity is stripped, which causes the mounting screw to just keep spinning when I try and tighten it. As of now, there is a little bit of grab but not super tight. Can anyone share advice on what I could do to reinforce the mounting screw? I’ve seen online of adding toothpicks, wall anchors, or even bondo to fill the hole. But wanted to measure twice before acting. Thank you all in advance! UPDATE: A fellow Redditor recommended a metal mesh screw hole repair kit. I found it at my local Home Depot for $2. Followed the instructions and cut small strips to fill the hole. And upon tightening the screw, it’s a MUCH better grip. It still keeps turning at the end but the grip is good enough and I consider the matter resolved. Thank you all for your time & help. All the best, Michael
One thing I have seen used many times with success is take some small diameter strands of copper wire, bend them 90° and put them in the hole. Then screw the bolt in and it will crush and deform them to provide grip. Trim off any excess and you should be good to go. Copper is soft so it deform easily to help secure the bolt, but is stronger than, say. Toothpicks or bondo
