Thanks everyone. yes of course I unplugged and plugged all wires and cables and did all the steps going into the backplate and even used different power cables and plugged them directly into wall. I tightened the bolts clockwise to no avail. BUT there is no way I'm going to take off the backplate without the replacement here since I want to do this once and only once -- if pushing in the internal plugs works with pre-existing unit then I won't even open the replacement box but to me this is more of a chore and not fun.

I will have a book and towel under the defective backplate. i think this should be cake upon further inspection. what size star bit do i require?