I put together this TV stand, and used a cam/bolt dowel for the first time when I got to the step of attaching the top of the TV stand (A) to the two stand panels (E). Since I assumed the cam had to be as tight as possible and it was fastened by a screwdriver, the first one I fastened I tightened way too hard and it messed the hole up a little bit. It was still tight, but it was a little angular and ugly, but that's fine because it was sturdy as hell. Once I realized not to do that I didn't do it again, but fast forward all the way to the final step of attaching the bottom/base and when I tilted the stand to its upright position and everything looks great except the top is backwards. Now I have to take everything apart, but I'm worried that since I've screwed everything in so tight, including the cam/bolt dowel, that when I put it back together it won't be as sturdy. Is there anything I can do to fix this situation? I'm an idiot.
I tightened a Titus Minifix Cam too hard and now I have to take it apart. Is that OK
boltscarpentryself-assembly-furniture
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Best Answer
It is understandable to be stressed about not breaking your furniture.
These cam locks can be loosened and tightened more than once. The cam can only turn so far with pin inserted into it. Just turn them all 1/4 turn counter clockwise to unlock them from the pin, then you may need to tap lightly from under the top at each of the points where there is a cam lock or dowel. Use a rubber mallet or something that will not dent or leave marks, if you only have a regulare hammer then use a piece of scrap wood to protect the furniture.
When reinstalling the top do the opposite (tap in down). Then turn each cam 1/4 turn clockwise. When you get to the cam that is questionable do not try to take it out as the wood is particle board and you may end up doing more harm then good. Just use the screwdriver to push in as you turn, the pin will prevent the cam from turning to far so snug it up tight but no need to be Hercules just snug to tight not super tight.
What you do not want to do is unnecessarily turn the cams or turn them more then 1/4 turn when the pin is not in them as that may cause excessive wear on the particle board. The hole is sized to fit the cam. Nothing holds the cam in the hole except for the pressure created by the cam's internal machining rotating against the pin.