What do I do if the drive cleat is too short or too long?

Use a drive cleat that fits the joint correctly. Too short can miss engagement; too long can interfere with corners, S-locks, insulation, or safe handling.

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

Stop if

• Ask when you do not know the required drive length allowance or if trimming changes the intended corner finish.

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

• Compare the drive length to the joint width before installing.
• If too short, replace it instead of patching the missing engagement.
• If too long, trim only if allowed and finish the sharp edge.
• Confirm the drive still seats full length.
• Ask if the length difference suggests wrong material or wrong duct piece.

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