How to Remove a Stripped Bolt That Does Not Go Away

It could be a lawn mower, a washing line, or a restored red wagon. You will eventually find yourself looking at a bolt or head that is not in good shape.

But don’t panic! But wait! There are ways to get rid of that broken or stripped bolt before you throw your wrench in the neighbor’s bushes. Continue reading.

How to Remove a Rusted Bolt

For those who work outdoors, rusty bolts are common. Machine bolt heads can become so oxidized that it is difficult to tell that they are there. It is also possible for the nuts that secure carriage bolts to rust making it difficult to remove them.

Rust can cause the bolt to become stuck or alter the shape of the nut or bolt head. The wrench will not grip the hex head of the bolt or nut, making it difficult, if not impossible, to remove.

What you’ll need:

• Penetrating oil
• Set of socket wrenches
• Box-end wrenches
• Hammer



• Locking pliers
• Hacksaw
• Multitool that can be used in multiple ways
• Reciprocating saw

Steps:

1. Spray the bolt with penetrating oils first. You can find many spray bottles and spray cans at auto parts stores (Blaster (WD-40), Liquid Wrench (etc.). ).
2. Use the penetrating oils to treat the bolt. Let it rest for as long as you are able. Use the socket wrench to loosen the bolt.
3. Tap the bolt’s head with a hammer if it is securely fastened to an assembly. You don’t want to damage the hex head shape. If the wrench is slipping, use another oil.
4. Spray penetrating oil on the bolt head and nut if it is stuck and won’t turn. Wait and then use the right size wrench to remove it. If the head or nut has become too oxidized, the wrench might not be able engage the shape and slip.
5. Use a pair locking pliers (aka vice-grips) to adjust the tension and firmly clamp the head or remove the nut.

How to Remove a Rusted Nut

If the nut is rusted, you will have no other option than to cut it off. If you have an oscillating multitool or a reciprocating, fit it with a metal cutter blade. Hacksaws are slower but no less efficient than the other methods. You can either cut along the bolt’s base or the sides of the nut.

Bolt removal isn’t the only area where you can spend money. A bolt extractor set is a good investment if you have more than one rusted bolt in your life. These sockets can remove rusted bolt heads and are priced from $25 to $200.

How to remove a broken bolt

Sometimes the head will snap off when you try to remove a rusted Bolt. This leaves the body in the threads. There are two options for removing the head. First, drill it out.

What you’ll need:

• Corded and cordless drills
• Drill bits
• Machine oil
• Punch in the center
• Hammer
• Properly sized bolt extractor

Steps:

1. A drill bit should be smaller than the bolt’s diameter.
2. To make a point in the middle of the bolt with a center punch, use a machine oil such as 3-in-1 to lubricate it. You must be careful not to damage the threads of the assembly, as this will make it difficult to install a new bolt.
3. A bolt extractor that looks like a screw with a coarse thread is a better way to remove a broken bolt. A set of bolt extractor screw can be bought for around $10.
4. There are many sizes available and they have left-handed threads. You will need to drill the bolt out as described above. However, it is only necessary to drill enough to allow the bolt extractor purchase to be made.
5. Apply a little penetrating oil to the bolt. Tap the bolt with a hammer until it is securely seated. Next, use a pair or wrench to turn the extractor clockwise.