Removing a damaged hinge bolt

[den912]

The head of 1 of my hinge bolt is rounded and I can’t get it out ,I’ve tried grips on it but it won’t budge ,how hot would I need to get the hinge bolt to help remove it or am I best drilling it out ,I don’t want to ruin the thread on hinge back plate so I’m reluctant
to drill it out
Thanks Brian

[Walter_Middie]

Brian,

I'd try a couple of other things before you break out the drill. Can you cut a slot in the bolt head with a dremel tool? Then use a flat blade screw driver to turn it. The dremel tool with add heat - you can use some BP Blaster and more heat and try to turn the bolt. Drill as a last resort as it is hard not to damage the threads - but it can be done. Best of luck.

[ed mayo]

You really need to buy an impact driver, it will save from rounding out bolt heads. Cut the slot as mentioned above, then use impact driver with large slotted socket attachment.

[Porboynz]

If these methods fail, Mig weld a hex nut to the head of the bolt (weld inside the nut)

[Harpo]

What about pounding on a smaller English socket?

David

[Dpmulvan]

[Dpmulvan]

[E Sully]

I have a set of Craftsman stripped bolt remover sockets that work well on rounded bolts and nuts.

[Dpmulvan]

[Dpmulvan]

Originally Posted by Dpmulvan

Everyone should have a manual impact in their tool box, great for screws bolts et.
A lifesaver. You simply put the right socket or screw bit, Allen et on and hit it with a hammer a few times.