Imagine encountering a rounded bolt that stubbornly resists your attempts at removal. This can be an exasperating situation, especially if you’re pressed for time or the bolt is in a crucial location. Fortunately, there are several effective techniques that can help you loosen a rounded bolt without damaging the surrounding components. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a novice DIY enthusiast, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to conquer this common automotive conundrum.
Before delving into the specific methods, let’s understand why bolts become rounded in the first place. The most common culprit is improper tool selection or excessive force. Using a wrench that is too small or worn can cause the corners of the bolt to round off. Additionally, applying excessive force without proper leverage can lead to the same result. To prevent this, always use a well-fitting wrench or socket and apply force gradually, using a long wrench or extension for added leverage.
Now, let’s explore some of the tried-and-tested methods for loosening rounded bolts. One effective technique is to use a cold chisel and hammer. Place the chisel at an angle against the edge of the bolt and carefully tap the chisel with a hammer. The vibrations and force generated by the hammer can help to break the bond between the bolt and its threads. Another method involves using a bolt extractor, a specialized tool designed specifically for removing damaged or rounded bolts. Bolt extractors come in various sizes and can be used with a wrench or socket to apply torque and gradually unscrew the bolt.
Employing Vise Grips
Vise grips, also known as locking pliers, are a versatile tool that can be used to grip and loosen rounded bolts. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use vise grips to loosen a rounded bolt:
1. Choose the Right Vise Grips
Select a pair of vise grips that are large enough to fit around the bolt head. The jaws should be wide enough to grip the bolt securely without damaging it.
2. Adjust the Vise Grips
Open the jaws of the vise grips and place them around the bolt head. Adjust the jaws so that they are snug but not too tight. You want to have enough grip to turn the bolt but not so much that you damage the bolt head.
3. Lock the Vise Grips
Once the vise grips are in place, lock them by squeezing the handles together. This will prevent the vise grips from slipping off the bolt head as you turn it.
4. Turn the Bolt
Using the handle of the vise grips, turn the bolt counterclockwise to loosen it. Apply steady pressure and be careful not to overtighten the vise grips.
5. Advanced Techniques
If the bolt is particularly stubborn, you can use some advanced techniques to loosen it:
- Use penetrating oil: Apply a penetrating oil, such as WD-40, to the bolt head. This will help to lubricate the threads and make it easier to turn.
- Use heat: If the bolt is rusted or frozen, you can apply heat to it using a heat gun or torch. This will expand the metal and make it easier to turn.
- Use a hammer: You can gently tap the vise grips with a hammer to shock the bolt loose. This can be effective for rusted or frozen bolts.
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Penetrating oil | Lubricates the threads to make it easier to turn. |
| Heat | Expands the metal to make it easier to turn. |
| Hammer | Shocks the bolt loose. |
Once you have loosened the bolt, you can remove the vise grips and finish unscrewing the bolt by hand.
Drilling Out the Bolt
8. Drilling the Pilot Hole
To create a pilot hole in the center of the rounded bolt, follow these steps with great precision:
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Ensure proper eye protection by wearing safety goggles.
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Select a drill bit that’s smaller in diameter than the screw extractor but large enough to create a deep enough pilot hole.
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Position the drill bit perpendicular to the bolt’s surface and align it with the center of the rounded head.
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Apply gentle pressure and start drilling slowly, ensuring the drill bit stays centered in the pilot hole.
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Drill to a depth of 1/4 to 1/2 inch, maintaining a steady and controlled speed.
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If you encounter resistance or the drill bit starts to wander, stop drilling and adjust your position or drill bit size as necessary.
Once the pilot hole is complete, you can move on to the next step of the bolt removal process.
How To Loosen A Rounded Bolt
A rounded bolt can be a real pain to deal with. The head of the bolt is rounded off, making it difficult to get a grip on it with a wrench. If you’re not careful, you could end up stripping the head of the bolt, making it even more difficult to remove.
There are a few different ways to loosen a rounded bolt. One option is to use a bolt extractor. A bolt extractor is a tool that is specifically designed to remove rounded bolts. It has a hardened steel tip that bites into the bolt and allows you to turn it.
Another option is to use a pair of vice grips. Vice grips are a type of pliers that have a locking mechanism. This allows you to get a good grip on the bolt, even if it is rounded.
If you don’t have a bolt extractor or a pair of vice grips, you can try using a hammer and a chisel. Place the chisel on the head of the bolt and hit it with the hammer. This will help to loosen the bolt so that you can remove it with a wrench.
People Also Ask
How do you remove a completely rounded bolt?
If the bolt is completely rounded, you may need to use a drill to remove it. Drill a hole into the center of the bolt, then use a screw extractor to remove it.
Can you use WD 40 to loosen a bolt?
Yes, you can use WD 40 to loosen a bolt. WD 40 is a penetrating oil that can help to loosen rusted or seized bolts.
What is the best way to prevent bolts from rounding?
The best way to prevent bolts from rounding is to use the correct size wrench. If you use a wrench that is too small, it will be more likely to slip and round off the bolt.
