Abstract: A retaining nut for securing an electrical connector to the surface of a an electrical panel or bulkhead. It has an annular ring having an upper surface, a lower surface and a central bore defining an inner periphery around an inside diameter of the ring. Several flexible, spring fingers are positioned around the inner periphery of the ring and project into the central bore. Preferably the fingers are helically arranged around the inside of the ring. Several upright posts positioned around and projecting outwardly perpendicularly from the upper surface of the ring aid manual insertion and removal of the nut. In use a cylindrical shaft having external threading around an outer circumference thereof positioned through the opening of a flat sheet panel. The a retaining nut is seated on the flat sheet and attaches to the shaft by means of the fingers engaging the external threading.