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I have an old house with black metal boxes on which there were old wall scones. All of the boxes have a threaded nipple in them which held the previous sconces. I am able to use a hickey to attach the new sconce via a threaded rod which works but there is nothing to counter rotation of the sconce around the thread. I could probably screw in some small "anchor" screws to help secure it better but I was wondering if these old style boxes have any kind of mounting holes that a universal mounting plate might work with. Thank you.enter image description here

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In answer to your question and looking at this picture. I don't think so. You're probably better off doing as little as possible with the wiring in this house. Be very careful. The only thing that I see here that is younger than me (including the method of installation) are the yellow wire nuts and the black pigtail.

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  • yeah, the wiring is old rubber coated wire, it's actually in good condition given its age. I wrap each wire with new electrical tape as a "just in case." Any idea what this type of box is called? I can't even find a picture of one to get an idea of what might be buried behind the plaster.
    – Elmo
    May 15, 2017 at 16:48
  • I have seen them but I don't know the call out would be for them. May 15, 2017 at 16:53
  • The old 3-1/2 inch metal boxes were usually used for lighting fixtures, this one has the hickey , I would look close as many of them did have threaded holes at the edge that may be covered by the plaster / concrete wall.
    – Ed Beal
    Feb 23, 2018 at 15:44
  • Could you an old work box there ? Not sure if your wall is solid or not.
    – ecco88
    Dec 22, 2018 at 14:52

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