I get questions all the time, and sometimes I’m surprised that RVers don’t know the answer. I just assume that everyone knows the little things. Recently, I had an RV owner ask what type of screwdriver they should use to remove RV screws. I thought that not only would it be a good idea to create a photo album in my RV Facebook groups for screws and bits, but I also wanted to show more information to help.
Below is a chart of basic drive types. Having the right-hand screwdrivers, bits, and impact bits in different lengths will also come in handy for all those hard-to-reach areas.
The head style is just as important as the length, and understanding the difference between some of the basic information when going to a hardware store will make all that much easier.
I also thought it would be important to share the pilot hole size chart and sheet metal screw diameter.
Besides knowing what types of screws and bits we use in the industry, you need to be familiar with these screws so you can take the right screwdrivers and driver bits with you in your RV toolbox. I hope this information has given you something to walk away with, and will help you during your trips to the hardware store.
Here are some links for screws and the bits. It is important to buy impact bits with round smooth sides to not damage anything when using them. The impact bits will also last longer and not wear the tips out.
- RV White Screws #8 X 1″ Square Drive
- RV Black Screws #8 X 1″ Square Drive
- Long Impact Bit Set 6-Inch Length, 6-Piece with 1-Piece Magnetizer & demagnetizer
- 10 pc. 2-inch SQ Impact Bit Set w/Clip
Our Facebook groups
These Facebook groups were created to help educate owners about parts, problems, repairs, fixes, and upgrades on RV units. We will be sharing videos that include WHAT’S IN THE SHOP? and SHOP TALK episodes with information on accessories and products that we use and install on the units from the shop.
We try and help as time allows to answer questions and problems. We encourage others to share their experience so we can build a resource page to help everyone.
Make sure you check out Dustin’s website, California RV Specialists, and their YouTube channel for more helpful information, and see our published articles on RVtravel.com and other social media pages.
Please feel free to share your stories, problems, and upgrades with us so we can build a resource page to help others.
Thank you,
Dustin
##RVDT2226
Would add T25 torx and Hex 1/4″, 5/16″ and 3/8″ nut drivers to this list 🙂
Thank you, Dustin! Another bookmarked column! 🙂 Thank you!
How about a discussion of screws and fasteners that don’t vibrate out onto the floor or around RV on the pavement. Seems to be a big issue for all RV’ers. To add adhesive or not? To use mollie bolts or claw type screws!
When you speak of a Phillips screw driver are you actually talking about Reed and Prince driver? A Phillips screwdriver is similar to a Reed Prince except the Reed and Prince is actually pointed on the end where the Phillips has a blunt end. The two are very similar but usually Reed and Prince doesn’t go deep enough into a Phillips head screw to get a solid grip. These days most screws are Reed and Prince as most that is the most commonly sold driver. Just a small technicallity.
Thank you. There’s also a double square, I’ve only seen it once. Had to stop a project and wait for Amazon.
A standard Roberston bit will work.
So long as we aren’t talking about high-torque screw applications, I have found a #2 phillips head screwdriver will turn many of the square drive screws in our two travel trailers.
I don’t have a non-interchangeable bit square drive screwdriver and the #2 phillips is handy. And most cordless drill/drivers have a #2 phillips & slotted bit clipped to them. My auxillary case of bits has a wide assortment. But when all I need to do tighten a loose screw I happen upon, it’s often not worth heading back to the bay for the bit case.