Small hardware carries an important load
The screws connecting the television to its mounting rails must match the TV's requirements. Diameter, thread pitch and engagement depth all matter. A screw can appear to tighten while bottoming out inside the TV or engaging too little thread to secure the rail properly.
Length includes the complete stack
The screw passes through the bracket and any specified washers or spacers before entering the TV. Those parts affect the required overall length. Follow the TV and bracket instructions together; do not copy a screw length from a different model with a similar screen size.
Spacers have a purpose
Some back panels have recesses, curves or projections that require spacers so the rails sit correctly. Stacking miscellaneous washers to make an unknown screw fit is not a reliable substitute for the specified arrangement. The rail should be supported as the manufacturer intends.
Stop if the fit feels wrong
Do not force a screw that resists turning, use power tools to overcome a thread mismatch or drill new holes into the TV cabinet. Recheck the model instructions and hardware. Damage to a threaded insert can be difficult to see once the screen is mounted.
Keep TV screws separate from wall fasteners
The fasteners securing the wall plate perform a different job and depend on the wall construction and mount. Our wall-fastener guide explains that distinction. Bring the mount manual and all supplied parts to the appointment, even if you are unsure which pieces will be used.