I am a newbie so thanks in advance for all the advice.

I want to replace my existing tv wall mount with another tv wall mount, and I have two questions.

1. Can I use the existing 4 holes for the lag screws (two in each adjacent studs about 16" apart)?

2. What is the minimum vertical distance between two holes on the same stud? I know they cannot be too close or I will risk splitting the 2x4 stud, but I don't know how close is too close.

The TV in question is the Pioneer PDP-5010FD, and weighs 85lbs. The lag screws in question are M10x80. Thanks.

Not sure on the minimum vertical distance...I'm thinking I wouldn't do less than 4 inches but that's just me.

As for the existing holes. I would take toothpicks and then dip them wood glue and fill the holes. Clip the ends of the toothpicks so they are flush. Let dry for a couple of hours and go ahead with the lag bolts as they'll now have something to cling to.

You could a) move mount up or down a few inches or b) use larger screws in the existing holes.