Mounting 5-panel mirror EZGO RXV

[FlyerAve]

Hello all:

So I bought a 5-panel mirror for my RXV. After breaking a few 1/8" bits to drill the pilot holes I bought a titanium but and got the pilot holes finished. The support for the roof is fairly think steel and it took awhile to get 4 holes completed. Using the self-tapping screws produced either completely stripped thread on the screw or they just broke off while trying to mount the angle bracket. I went out and bought stainless steel, self-tapping screws and they too are breaking. I have drilled out enough broken screws to know that there has to be another way. Do I need to tap the pilot holes and use a machine screw when mounting this mirror?

Before you ask, the pilot holes are the correct size for the self-tapping screws but the metal is hardened steel and once the self-tapping screw gets two turns in, SNAPS and breaks.

Thanks in advance for advice. Maybe someone has another method of attaching the angle brackets? Rivets?

[jdunmyer]

FA,
It's been a while since I mounted the mirror on my RXV, so I'm unsure if I had similar troubles. However:

You can either drill the holes larger or switch to a machine screw and tap the holes for the appropriate thread. Best use a fine-thread bolt, as the metal is not real thick.

I'd measure the screws to be certain that your oversized holes aren't too much oversized.

[basshawk84]

I used a bolt, nut and lock washer on all the mirror mounts I've done. Just drill through both sides.

[smokey tennis shoe]

I bet i have installed about 35 of these mirrors on RXV's. I use 3/4" pan head self tapping screws ( i paint them black), and i use my 12 volt dewalt impact drill, and they go right in, no problems, no pre drilling any holes, etc.

[PinballDad]

I did what Smokey did on my 2008 rxv. Went in like butter.