Value Collection 275 Spring Steel U Nut 5/16-18

Product Description

The VALUE COLLECTION 275 is a spring steel U nut designed for 5/16-18 threaded fastener applications. U nuts, also called clip nuts or speed nuts, snap onto a panel or sheet metal edge and provide a captive thread point without requiring access to the back side of the material. This part accommodates material thicknesses from 0.025 to 0.15 inches, making it suitable for light-gauge sheet metal panels commonly found in HVAC equipment, electrical enclosures, and plumbing access covers. Installation is performed by hand or with basic hand tools and requires no welding or drilling of secondary hardware.

This U nut is used wherever a 5/16-18 screw must thread into thin sheet metal and back-access is limited or not possible. Common applications include securing access panels, cover plates, and brackets in residential and light commercial HVAC equipment, electrical junction and distribution enclosures, and similar sheet metal assemblies. The spring steel construction maintains consistent clamping force against the panel after installation.

Key Features

• Accepts 5/16-18 threaded screws for secure panel fastening
• Spring steel construction provides reliable retention and consistent clamping tension
• Material thickness range of 0.025 to 0.15 inches suits light-gauge sheet metal panels
• Clip-on installation eliminates the need for back-side access or secondary fasteners
• Inch measurement system; compatible with standard 5/16-18 UNC fasteners

Compatibility

Designed as an OEM-style replacement or service fastener for any sheet metal assembly requiring a 5/16-18 captive U nut with material thickness between 0.025 and 0.15 inches.

Installation Notes

U nuts are installed by sheet metal technicians, HVAC service techs, electricians, and general maintenance trades. Before servicing any enclosure or panel, de-energize all electrical circuits per NFPA 70 (NEC) requirements and follow lockout/tagout procedures. Clip the U nut onto the panel edge until it seats firmly before driving the mating screw. Do not overdrive the screw, as spring steel clip nuts can deform if torqued beyond hand-tight snug.