How to Remove Broken Bolts & Screws

Removing broken bolts and screws almost always requires the use of a bolt-out or screw removal kit. These are available at most auto parts stores. The bolt-out kits have special teeth on the inside of the socket bits that grab onto the outside of the broken bolt and force it out. In the process of removal, the bolt is nearly always totally destroyed. Screw removal kits are essentially drill bits with a special tip that can drill out the screw. In some cases, you can use these to remove bolts when the bolt head has been broken off.

Things You'll Need

• Bolt-out kit or screw removal kit
• Socket wrench
• Drill
• Compressed air

Instructions

1. Place the bolt out socket over the damaged bolt head. If you are removing a screw, put the screw removal drill bit into the chuck on your drill and tighten the chuck. Then center the bit onto the damaged screw or bolt.

2. Turn the bolt counterclockwise or begin drilling the screw.

3. Remove any remaining bolt or screw pieces with compressed air.

References

• Auto Body Repair Technology - 5th Edition; James E. Duffy; 2009