Dear All,  There's a superior repair product that used to be (and
may still be) available in every Ace hardware store and can easily
be found on the web ($7.99 plus shipping).  I bought a supply
25 years ago and still haven't used it all up!

Basically, it consists of an aluminum strip which has been punctured
in such a way as to cause many tiny sharp teeth to be formed.  You
can use the strips as is for very large holes or use scissors to cut
them to size.  Once you insert them into the stripped holes (like
matchsticks) and turn the original screw in, the screw will hold tight,
the strips will _not_ rust, the screw is removable and the entire
process is reversible!

http://www.improvementscatalog.com/home/improvements/13284-Screw-Hole-Repair-Strips.html

Happy Holidays to all and our wish for a more peaceful New Year!

Frank Metzger

 [ Available at Ace and several other hardware stores:
 [ Woodmate Mr. Grip Mr. Grip Screw Hole Repair Kit - 12 pack: $25
 [ -- Robbie