How do I unscrew this striped bolt?

Question

I was trying to unscrew the bolt for my oil filter on my motorcycle and it stripped (the threads did not strip, the head of the bolt is striped; all gummed up so the socket just spins and can't grip it) I tried to pound a smaller sized socket on it but it wouldn’t go. I also tried using some vice grip pliers but that didn’t work ether. Please help me get this darn thing off of there.

Answer 1

I would keep trying with a new pair of vice grips. They will have sharper teeth. Make sure they clamp real tight.

Answer 2

If you can't lock a vice grip on the stripped head, the only thing I would suggest is an "easy out". You will need to drill a hole in the center of the bolt and screw the easy out into the hole. The easy out is a reverse thread bolt that should take thevstripped bolt out.

Answer 3

If you tried clamping the vise grips then turning the grips, try clamping them on, then using pliers on the vise grip nose.
If this fails, you can try filing flats on the sides of the head to get a pair or flat gripping surfaces and/or drill and file the head to take it off and get access to the shaft.

Answer 4

You will somehow need to get hold of the head of the bolt. Depending on the screws placement and how much is accessible, vise grips, or a screw extractor. In more severe cases the screw is drilled and broken up, or a piece of metal is welded to the screw and then used to extract the screw.

Answer 5

I'm not sure where you live, but most tool stores (SEARS) or hardware stores sell a tool, in the socket section, that is desigend specifically for this purpose. Unfortunately it will require the purchase of one more tool, but it's better than getting a drill near your bike.

Try this link on Amazon.com:

http://www.amazon.com/IRWIN-394001-Bolt-Grip-Remover/dp/B0000CCXVZ

Good luck!

Answer 6

Try a very small pipe wrench(make sure it is a good brand name - no Chinese tool).