What do I do if the drive cleat is cut too short?

Replace it with the proper length. A short drive can miss engagement, leave an edge unsecured, and create a weak/leaky joint.

Replace or correct the drive length. A drive that barely catches the joint is not a finished connection.

Rectangular Duct & Fittings 2nd Year YELLOW

Stop if

Ask if you are not sure how much end engagement/finish is required on your job.

Watch out

Do not pretend a short or wrong-length drive is acceptable because it is hard to reach.

Check

Check full engagement
Check both corners
Verify the drive length before cover

Steps

Do not finish or seal the short drive.
Confirm the correct drive length with your foreman/shop practice.
Replace the drive.
Re-seat the joint and finish the ends correctly.
Check the corner after replacement.

Say this to your foreman

In Rectangular Duct Assembly: S-and-Drive, I'm looking at: What do I do if the drive cleat is cut too short? What should I verify before I cut, drill, seal, cover, move, or install?