The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop rounded bolt head on spring clamp

All wise and knowing forum members!
The coil spring clamp let go on my 66 C10 a couple of weeks ago. I ordered new clamps (top and bottom) and all the bolts, washers, etc. that hold them in place from LMC and when I was attempting to take the top one off the bolt head was so old, rusty, etc. that the edges rounded and now I need to get it out some other way… I was thinking of using my sawsall to cut it off flush at the frame, then drill it out and retap the bolt hole… got any other ideas out there? I’m a novice at truck restoration and need all the help I can get. I’m sure someone out there knows a neat way to get stripped headed bolts out of things. Please help.

Thanks
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You could try the Bolt Out tool from Sears. It's kind of an inside out easy-out. The socket has a left hand twist in it that grabs the bolt head. I have a similar too from Mac Tools, they do work very well. The smaller set from sears is about $15. Give it a good shot of B'Laster or Kroil before you try to take it off.

Thanks for the tip Bill

if you have new stuff, and you are sure it is the right stuff, don't be afraid to carefully use the torch.

Add a little heat to it. Most of the time the expansion and contraction will break it loose. Also, If you can weld a nut to the stripped head the heat from welding will allow you to wrench it out.

Iv'e learned to always spray with P-B Blaster before I twist.I also use the 6 point type wrench.

thanks for all your help guys! Great tips!

vice grips and small pipe wrenches work wonders.

Sandy, did you use a 6 point or a 12 point sockett? If you used a 12 point try a 6 point and if it rounds then its time for victor the gas axe. (torch) And as a reminder use penetrating oil before you start.

Get someone who can weld better than I. Set a large nut over the rounded head, and weld it to the bolt. Use a good wrench and remove the bolt.

Jon.

see

http://www.stovebolt.com/techtips/brokenbolt.htm