Avoid Bump Bar Damage: Why Screw Selection Matters

In fast-paced kitchen and service environments, bump bars are critical tools for maintaining order flow and operational efficiency. Unfortunately, a small and often overlooked detail, such as an improper screw selection, can lead to permanent damage, unnecessary downtime, and avoidable replacement costs.

This article outlines a common issue we see with bump bars and explains how using the correct screw can prevent costly failures.

The Common Problem: Screws That Are Too Long

During daily operations, especially in high-volume environments, bump bars can occasionally lose their mounting screws. When this happens, teams often replace the missing screw with whatever is readily available.

While this may seem harmless, using the wrong screw, particularly one that is too long, can cause severe internal damage.

We frequently see bump bars returned that were reinstalled with screws longer than specified. When these screws are entirely driven into the housing, they can extend past the mounting point and contact the internal circuit board.

Once this happens, the damage is immediate and irreversible.

How Improper Screws Damage the Bump Bar

Inside the bump bar housing sits a sensitive circuit board that controls functionality. A screw that penetrates too far can:

• Puncture or crack the circuit board
• Damage electrical pathways
• Render the bump bar completely non-functional

In many cases, a visual inspection clearly shows where the screw contacted the board. At that point, the bump bar cannot be repaired and must be replaced. 

The Correct Screw to Use

To avoid this issue entirely, it is critical to use the correct hardware.

The recommended screw for bump bar mounting is:

10-32 pan head screw 3/8 inch

This screw is properly sized to secure the bump bar without extending into internal components. When installed correctly, it ensures a secure mount while protecting the circuit board from damage.

To simplify replacements and avoid guesswork, we recommend keeping a Replacement Bump Bar Hardware Kit on hand. These kits include the correct screws specifically sized for bump bar mounting, eliminating the risk of accidental damage caused by improper hardware.

Why This Matters

Using the proper screw may seem like a minor detail, but it has a direct impact on operations:

• Prevents permanent hardware damage
• Avoids unnecessary equipment replacement
• Reduces downtime during peak service hours
• Extends the lifespan of your bump bar

In busy kitchen environments, even short periods of downtime can disrupt workflow and service speed. Preventing avoidable failures helps maintain consistency and reliability.

Final Takeaway

If a bump bar mounting screw goes missing, resist the temptation to substitute a similar-looking screw. Always replace it with the correct 10-32 pan head screw 3/8 inch, or use a dedicated Replacement Bump Bar Hardware Kit designed for bump bars.

A small hardware choice can make the difference between a fully operational bump bar and a costly, non-functional unit.

Prevent the damage before it happens and keep your equipment working as intended.