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Old 10-11-2016, 04:07 PM   #1
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How to replace exterior GFI outlet

Newbie here . . . trying to replace a defective exterior GFI outlet on a 2011 19 footer and have run into some problems. I removed the 2 exterior screws under the spring loaded weather plate but that did not seem to loosen the outlet sufficiently. Before I make my problem worse is there a trick to this removal. It seems as though there are some screws inside the body but no nuts holding them in place. There is plenty of silicone sealant which may be holding the outlet fixture securely to the trailer body. Any ideas? Thanks, Pete.
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Old 10-11-2016, 05:44 PM   #2
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Newbie here . . . trying to replace a defective exterior GFI outlet on a 2011 19 footer and have run into some problems. I removed the 2 exterior screws under the spring loaded weather plate but that did not seem to loosen the outlet sufficiently. Before I make my problem worse is there a trick to this removal. It seems as though there are some screws inside the body but no nuts holding them in place. There is plenty of silicone sealant which may be holding the outlet fixture securely to the trailer body. Any ideas? Thanks, Pete.
Have you check the interior to see how it is attached, not sure if it is accessible in yours from the rear.
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Old 10-11-2016, 05:51 PM   #3
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Normally a GFCI or a regular receptacle is installed in a box with small machine screws. Then the cover plate is installed with two more short machine screws. These are the two heads that you see on any cover plate.

So after removing the two cover plate screws there should be two more, quite close to where the first pair were, slightly closer together. You have to remove the second set of screws to allow the GFCI to be pulled out of the box.

If this process doesn't seem to match your situation post a photo of your situation.

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Old 10-11-2016, 05:56 PM   #4
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How to replace GFI outlet

Thanks for responding Jim. I climbed under the bed to get a good look from the inside. I observed the thread end of screws that should originate from the outside of the trailer. I had previously removed the 2 visible screws behind the weather guard. I tried gently prying the outlet but there was very little give.
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Old 10-11-2016, 06:12 PM   #5
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I'd remove any screws that are visable then take a plastic putty knife to the caulk.
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Old 10-11-2016, 06:42 PM   #6
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You should be able to remove the outlet from the box without removing the box from the trailer.
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Old 10-11-2016, 06:46 PM   #7
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Ron here are the photos . . . upon cleaning I discovered a message that states " use 5/32 drill from bottom side to open 4 holes. I noticed 4 + signs on the four corners of the outlet plate, do you guys think this is where I should drill?
Attached Thumbnails
DSC04069.jpg   DSC04072.jpg   DSC04074.jpg  
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Old 10-11-2016, 06:51 PM   #8
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When I installed one on my Eggcamper, that metal piece that keeps the outlet is removable, perhaps just sealant is keeping it attached, then you can get access to the outlet itself.
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Old 10-11-2016, 06:52 PM   #9
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May as well as use the drill, MAKE SURE THE POWER IS OFF TO THE OUTLET....does your replacement have a new faceplate also?
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Old 10-11-2016, 06:57 PM   #10
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No holes should be necessary to remove a GFCI. Your bottom photo shows that you have removed the two machine screws that hold the cover plate only.

No further removal of any other screws to remove the cover plate is necessary. Use a putty knife and work it around the cover. It should pop free leaving the GFCI exposed. Some surplus silicone could have glued it to the GFCI but it should pop off.

Then you'll see the two machine screws that hold the GFCI onto the box.

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Old 10-11-2016, 06:58 PM   #11
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and make sure the power is off.......
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Old 10-11-2016, 09:25 PM   #12
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Thanks to all who replied, GREAT FORUM. Escapees are the best!
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Old 10-11-2016, 09:59 PM   #13
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Thanks to all who replied, GREAT FORUM. Escapees are the best!
I'm really hoping that your message means the cover plate popped off and you were able to deal with the GFCI.

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Old 10-12-2016, 09:16 AM   #14
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Work in progress, I'm retired.
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