ᐅ What should you do if the Ikea Brimnes screws don’t fit properly?

Created on: 11 Feb 2021 17:08
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gumafra
Hello everyone, I recently assembled the IKEA Brimnes bed frame, but some of the included screws don’t fit properly. Specifically, some screws are too short or don’t engage cleanly in the threads, which makes me worried that the stability could be compromised. Has anyone else had similar experiences? How did you resolve this issue? Are there common mistakes during assembly with these screws that I should watch out for? I would really appreciate detailed tips or workarounds, especially if I need to find replacements. Thanks in advance!
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PRABAU
12 Feb 2021 09:03
If the screws do not fit, it is usually due to an error in identifying the screws. Programs like IKEA often label similar screws with letters. Double-check exactly which screws are intended for each part before dealing with replacements.
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stefangla
12 Feb 2021 10:24
Here is a brief guide for dealing with screw issues when assembling the IKEA Brimnes:

- First, check all screws in the set and sort them by length and thread type.
- Compare carefully with the instructions to identify which screws belong to which connection points.
- If you find screws that are too short or do not hold properly, inspect the drilled holes for damage or residue.
- If necessary, use a file or a small brush to clean the threads in the wooden parts.
- If needed, purchase replacement screws with the same diameter and thread pitch.

Important: Never force screws in, as this can widen the holes and compromise stability.
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PEDRO40
12 Feb 2021 14:55
Sorry to hear you're having such difficulties. Problems with screws when assembling furniture can be really frustrating. Try not to stress too much – take another calm look at the screws, sometimes a short pause helps. Have you tried using the screws in a different hole? Sometimes slight material variations are to blame. If you want, feel free to share more details, maybe we can find a solution together.
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gumafra
13 Feb 2021 11:36
stefangla schrieb:
If you find screws that are too short or don’t grip properly, check the drill holes for damage or residue.

That makes sense. I actually tried turning the screws differently, but often they just sit loosely in the thread and don’t hold. Even slight residue could explain the problem.
julian36 schrieb:
It’s important to first carefully check the included instructions and make sure the correct screws are used in the right places.

I sorted the screws from the beginning, but some still don’t fit properly. What are the usual tolerance ranges for Brimnes screws? I ask because I assume IKEA doesn’t necessarily deliver machine-grade quality here, but I need to know if I should wait for replacement screws or if the risk is low as long as they hold firmly.

Thanks in advance for the tips so far!
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Aimee
13 Feb 2021 12:15
gumafra schrieb:
I’m asking because I assume IKEA doesn’t exactly provide engineering-grade quality here

That is correct. IKEA screws are functional but not precision-forged. As long as the screws hold tight, the stability is usually fine. Only replace them if there are obvious problems.