Broken Seat Bolt, little purchase. (pics inside).

[scottmc]

Hello all,

When attempting to remove my seat the other day, the bolt snapped clear off.

I have tried dousing it with PJ blaster, and taking vice grips to it, but with no avail.

I am a newbie at repairs, with limited tools. What do you suggest is the best course of action?

I really appreciate it, I am at a loss.

Scott.

[chuck hahn]

Picture is so big i gotta scroll all over the place makingbit nearly impossible toget a clear look at the problem..would love to try and help but i cant with this picture. go about 25% size as compared to what this one is so we can see the entire seat area in question.

[Killer2600]

What side is the head on? It looks like you tried vice grips on the side that didn't break - generally not a good idea because you bugger up the threads that have to unscrew.

[scottmc]

Picture is so big i gotta scroll all over the place makingbit nearly impossible toget a clear look at the problem..would love to try and help but i cant with this picture. go about 25% size as compared to what this one is so we can see the entire seat area in question.

Sorry, fixed

[scottmc]

What side is the head on? It looks like you tried vice grips on the side that didn't break - generally not a good idea because you bugger up the threads that have to unscrew.

The Head was on Side B. I can't really get at side A (the non head side anyways).

[derwood]

if the hole is not blind (bottomless) file or grind a flat spot and start drilling, the drill bit will tend to catch and spin the remains of the bolt right through and out the other side. start smaller than tap drill size and work up to it. if you are centred, the threads will be undamaged when you get to tap drill size, but the bolt will probably be out by then.

[scottmc]

if the hole is not blind (bottomless) file or grind a flat spot and start drilling, the drill bit will tend to catch and spin the remains of the bolt right through and out the other side. start smaller than tap drill size and work up to it. if you are centred, the threads will be undamaged when you get to tap drill size, but the bolt will probably be out by then.

So, should I be using something like this?

Mastercraft 13 Piece Tap and Drill Bit Set

http://www.canadiantire.ca/AST/browse/6/Tools/PowerToolAccessories/DrillBitsSetsAccessories/PRD~0587100P/Mastercraft+13+Piece+Tap+and+Drill+Bit+Set.jsp?locale=en

[Bookmon]

The crew have given good answers. depending on hardware resourses- you might be able to avoid a whole tap n die set. Sears(?)- I am sure the other big box store too- have this gizmo that can drill/screw into a broken bolt. Then put your drill in reverse and back it out.
Some say products like WD40, Kutzit, ect..are a waste. But I've always felt, well won't hurt. might loosen some rust or crud to make it easier. There is also a prduct that freezes the stuck bolt. Concept is, when it thaws, it busts loose.
Good luck

[chuck hahn]

You can drill the center of the bolt out and then use a flat tip to collapse the walls of the remaining stud into the hole..this will looseen the case up and you can then grab it with needle nose pliers and twist it out. Once you get it collapsed into itself a good shot of penetrating oil will help. OPTION 2..heat the chit out of it with a propane torch or oxy/ acetelyn if you have a set of torches. Give the heads a few good smacks with a hammer and then a socket should get them turning. Twist the bolt in and out a few times to break the rust up and then try to remove it. It will be a tough turn since youve already messed up the threads on the bolt. little out..little in.... then a little more out. If the threads in the welded on bolt get screwed up then just retap a bit larger and get bigger seat bolts.

[scottmc]

You can drill the center of the bolt out and then use a flat tip to collapse the walls of the remaining stud into the hole..this will looseen the case up and you can then grab it with needle nose pliers and twist it out. Once you get it collapsed into itself a good shot of penetrating oil will help. OPTION 2..heat the chit out of it with a propane torch or oxy/ acetelyn if you have a set of torches. Give the heads a few good smacks with a hammer and then a socket should get them turning. Twist the bolt in and out a few times to break the rust up and then try to remove it. It will be a tough turn since youve already messed up the threads on the bolt. little out..little in.... then a little more out. If the threads in the welded on bolt get screwed up then just retap a bit larger and get bigger seat bolts.

Thanks!

It took a bit of work, but I finally drilled the sucker out!