How to Repair a Stripped Cam Lock Hole in Particleboard

The Stripped Hole Fix

A cam lock hole in particleboard strips when over-tightened or re-used. The hole goes round, then oval, then the cam spins freely. Here's the repair that restores the joint.

Method 1: Toothpicks and Wood Glue

For a slightly loose hole, fill it with wood glue, pack in 3-4 wooden toothpicks, and let it dry. Trim flush, then re-insert the cam screw. The glue-and-toothpick fill gives the screw something to bite.

Method 2: The Hardwood Dowel

For a fully stripped hole, drill the hole out to 3/8 inch, glue a 3/8-inch hardwood dowel in, and let it dry. Cut flush, then drill a new pilot hole for the cam screw in the center of the dowel. The hardwood holds the screw like new.

Method 3: The Larger Cam

Replace the standard cam with a #15 (larger) cam lock. Drill the hole to the larger diameter and drop in the new cam. The larger cam grips fresh material.

Don't Use Wood Filler Alone

Wood filler is too soft to hold a cam screw. It's fine to fill cosmetic damage, but a structural hole needs a dowel or a larger cam — filler will strip again.

Let Glue Cure

Any glue repair needs 24 hours before assembly. A joint loaded before the glue sets fails immediately.

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