Broken Bolt

[Guest]

I removed my spline (driven joint) to check if it was worn (it was). One of the six bolts that secure it to the rear wheel twisted off.

I've read the horror stories about Easy Outs.

Anybody have a suggestion for removing the broken bolt shaft from my wheel?

[razor02097]

Is there any of the thread still sticking out? If so you can soak with penetrating lube and get some vise grips on it.

Most issues with screw extractors are people that twist on them way too hard or they use the wrong size.

[teedubya56]

No. Unfortunately, it sheared off flush with the surface. I soaked it in PB Blaster, but there is nothing there to grip.

Since it sheared off during removal, I'm afraid an Easy-Out will break off and just make the situation worse.

[razor02097]

I have had some good luck using heat and reverse drill bits before.

[mike_of_bbg]

Dremel a slot into it, soak repeatedly with penetrating lube (NOT WD40 - PB Blaster or maybe ATF/Acetone mix) several times at a few hours' intervals, tapping with hammer each time. Hit with impact driver, apply heat if necessary.

[teedubya56]

Thanks for the suggestions, guys. I'll let you know how I make out.

[tom203]

I have had some good luck using heat and reverse drill bits before.

Yes, a suitable sized left hand drill bit often bites in and spins the broken bolt out .

[Billy Ricks]

Dremel a slot into it, soak repeatedly with penetrating lube (NOT WD40 - PB Blaster or maybe ATF/Acetone mix) several times at a few hours' intervals, tapping with hammer each time. Hit with impact driver, apply heat if necessary.

This would be my first choice of methods. Easy enough to move on if it doesn't work.

[7981GS]

I have had some good luck using heat and reverse drill bits before.

In your situation, this is the best method.
Try several heating and cool down times before the extraction with penetrating oil.
Keep us posted. We like happy endings.


Daniel

[BassCliff]

Greetings and Salutations!!

Hi Mr. teedubya56,

Here's some info on bolt extraction:

Extracting A Broken Bolt Or Screw

http://www.amazines.com/Construction/article_detail.cfm/307403?articleid=307403

Removing broken bolts with stick welder

http://weldingweb.com/archive/index.php/t-7834.html

Here's a guide to un-sticking stuck fasteners.

http://www.motorcycle.com/how-to/how-to-extract-stuck-screws-3440.html

remove broken tap drill or stud

http://brokentap.blogspot.com/

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[bwringer]

These bolts are held in with thread locking compound (Loctite), so it'll be a lot easier if you can use heat, then a reverse drill bit smaller than the bolt.

Unfortunately, you can't just skip using one of these bolts -- they're each pretty dang important.

If all else fails, a 6mm thread insert should work nicely here.

Or a good used rear wheel should be easy to find.

[teedubya56]

Thanks guys, for all the information and encouragement.

One question: Will a heat gun produce enough heat to do any good, or do I need something more aggressive?

[1_v8_merc]

Most of the time the skinny bottles are on sale for like $2 or so, then 5 or $10 for the torch tip?

Turn the knob a tiny bit till you hear the gas, and flick a lighter about 1 inch from the tip, and adjust the flame as needed.