Removing a Stripped Hex Bolt

A stripped hex bolt often puts a pause to the job at hand. You might have come across this problem and must have spent hours trying to fix it. Read on to find out about a few common and easy ways to remove a stripped hex bolt.

Step 1 – Safety Precautions

This job does not involve the use of any complicated equipment. But, it would be advisable to take the necessary safety precautions. Wear your work glove at all time. Also safety goggles will come handy.

Step 2 – Hex Driver

In order to remove a stripped hex bolt you will need a hex driver. While buying the hex driver make sure you measure the stripped hex bolt's head. The driver should be one size bigger than the head.

Step 3 – Use the Driver

In this step you will learn how to use the driver. Place it onto the head of the hex bolt. Twist the driver to free the hex bolt. Because the driver is bigger it helps in removing the stripped hex bolt.

Step 4 – The Screw Method

The above explanation was just one of the methods to remove a stripped hex bolt. Another method is to convert the stripped hex bolt into a screw. This will help you remove it from its position.

Step 5 – Cut the Head

You need to introduce a deep cut onto the head of the hex bolt. Use a rotary tool as well as a cutting wheel to accomplish this.

Step 6 – Screwdriver

Get hold of a screwdriver; make sure it is flat headed. Place the screwdriver on the cut that was created in Step 5 and turn it around. After a series of turns the bolt will come free.

Step 7 – Cut the Head

Another method to remove the bolt is to cut off the head. You need to use a rotary tool for this. Also an extractor will help you in this process.

Step 8 – Position

The rotary tool has to be positioned extremely close to the hex bolt head. Now get a drill bit and an extractor of the exact same size. Now drill the hole at the bolt's center

Step 9 – Extractor

In this step introduce the bit of the extractor into the hole drilled in Step 8. Make sure that you introduce the bit gently and in a straight direction. Moving it sideways will result in breaking the extractortor bit.

Step 10 – Turn Counter Clockwise

Once the bit has penetrated the hole completely, turn it in the counter clockwise direction. This will result in releasing the grip of the hex bolt and it will break free.

Step 11 – Lubricate

Before you start with the removal process you should lubricate the bolt. Lubricating the bolt will help in providing ease while threading the bolt out.

Step 12 – Machine

If you have some extra bucks to spare then you can buy one of those semi automatic tools that help in removing the stripped bolt. This will require you to heat the bolt's head and stripping the end with the help of the machine.