Wrist strap screw lug/thumb screw mis-match.

[Syncopepper]

I have an Aeola that has screw lugs for anchoring wrist straps.  I had it fully restored a few years ago and had wrist straps installed as my left thumb joint has been destroyed from a lifetime of playing various instruments and I can no longer use the left thumb strap. Unfortunately, the thumbscrews provided do not have the same screw thread form as the older lugs, only loosely fit, and will pop out keeping me in constant fear of dropping the EC.

 

I have tried plumbers' teflon tape, toothpick ends, and various splinters of different materials without much success. I have thought about having new lugs installed or searching the universe for old thumb screws but I am scheduled for a new thumb joint in February after which I may no longer need the thumb straps. I am wondering if I could try something like hide glue to secure the thumb screws but want to make sure I don't irrevocably clog the lug holes. Can anyone recommend a way to better secure these thumbscrews without damaging the lugs?

[Chris Ghent]

Do not use glue.  The only good solution is to get good matched screws and captive nuts. 

[Tiposx]

Perhaps you could ask the restorer what thread form was used? If the wrist straps were installed in the UK they might be BA or Metric, but in your country there are more possibilities.

[Theo]

It's also possible that the threads are worn in the lug the screw or both.

[d.elliott]

you can get replacement adjustment screws with inserts. You can drill out the existing screw hole on the plate nut (lug) to accept the new insert and bond the insert in place. 

 

Dave