[boozehound]

If you're talking about the two long machine screws, not to insult your intellegence and ask a stupid question but is it possible that the threads are stripped either on the screw or inside the mechanism. I've installed hundreds of deadbolts and it has been known to happen from time to time.

 

[DangerMouse]

Or flip it over and screw it in. Some of them have the screws off center.
They only go on one way.

DM

 

[user1007]

Flying from memory but don't some come with snap off points so the manufacturer can ship one set of screws/bolts to accommodate different door thicknesses? I may be dreaming or thinking of something for a different purpose so ignore this if it seems absurd. If I am right you may have to snap the fastener off to be the correct length.

 

[Gary in WA]

Is that one with "UP" stamped on the throw? Or an escutcheon plate for different door thicknesses?

Gary

 

[Tom Struble]

are you using the right screws? there may be several in the package

unscrew the bolt plate,sometimes helps to have some play

 

[hubbard]

It worked when I unscrewed the bolt plate as suggested, it did need more play. The front door was a piece of cake but the back door hole must have been a little bit off center. Thanks for all the suggestions.