hex bolt head....

[BigDogNMyrtle]

I am trying replace my gas cap cover on my 98 F-150 with a polished aluminum cover and when I was trying to unscrew the hex bolt to take off the original gas door, I noticed the head was stripped already. I have no idea how this happened because I have never tried to replace the gas door unless someone needed one and they stripped it trying to steal it. How in the world can I get the screw out now? I really don't want to return the cover unless I really have to. Help me PLEASE

 

[1ownerT]

Are you sure it is a hex instead of a torx.? Protect the area and use a dremmel to either grind off the head (then carefully drill out the bolt) or cut a slot in it and use a screwdriver.

 

[JohnHenrys48]

If it's just a hex head, and you have open access to it, sometimes hammering an impact socket on could allow you to get a grip on it. I've used that method on locking lug nuts before.

You could also try to JB Weld an oversized socket to it.

I don't care for the Easy-Out style bits, they seem to be a little on the fragile side, but in this case they might work. To use one you would have to be able to drill a hole in the center of the bolt and insert the Easy-Out. It's a reverse thread bit that tightens into the hole when turned counter clockwise...

If you have a way to post a picture that would help a bit. Good luck,

Jim

 

[Weekend_warrior]

I would punch it with the center punch (so when you start the drill the bit does not wallo around and starts were you put the punch). Then use a left handed drill bit on it. Move up the biggest size that you can with out damaging the threads. Then use the largest easy out that you can. If you not comforable doing that I would try the cut a slot in it and use a large flat blade screw driver method on it.

 

[BigDogNMyrtle]

I ended up buying an easy out kit from Sears...I'm going to try it out tomorrow morning. If this doesn't work i'm going to take it back and try cutting a slit in it and use a flathead. thanks for the replies!

 

[rhandwor]

Sears and most parts stores sell extractors for rounded bolts. Irwin and Blue point also sell them they work good. My Chevy Silverado had a transmission drain plug which stripped and I used a 9/16 on an undersized 15mm. It came out.

 

[Blacknwhitepit]

Sears and most parts stores sell extractors for rounded bolts. Irwin and Blue point also sell them they work good. My Chevy Silverado had a transmission drain plug which stripped and I used a 9/16 on an undersized 15mm. It came out.

I hope he has this problem solved now that it has been 3 and a half years since he posted this.

Anyway, I would have used a bolt out.

-BWP

 

[bmwpower]

I hope he has this problem solved now that it has been 3 and a half years since he posted this.

Anyway, I would have used a bolt out.

-BWP

HAHA!!!
Funny stuff...didn't even realize the date.