Broken radiator bolster bolts

C

CapeCodCubs

501 Club
I know this probably has been discussed, but what is the best way (no torches available) to get broken bolts out of the radiator bolster. What size extractor should be used if that is the best approach? Thanks!
 
Welding a nut to the bolt is ideal. I did not have that option available to me. I ground heads off bolts just enough to remove radiator. Then I used a pipe wrench to remove mine.

[ Post made via iPhone ]
iPhone.png
 
Chris, At a minimum, soak them in Kroil or whatever you have handy for a few days. Even if you don't have an acetylene torch, a butane or small MAPP gas torch will make a lot of difference. If there is a stub above the bolster, the "Boltsout" tool from Sears or someone else may catch on them. I'd try those approaches unless you have to drill. If you have to drill, grind the top flat, center punch, start with a small bit (1/8" or so) and have the bit marked with tape so you don't drill too deep. You can then gradually enlarge until you are at drill size for a tap and pick and tap out any remaining bolt metal in the threads. How many do you have broken off? I'd avoid using an EZout, because if you break it off....

Bob
 
I have been doing a little research on extractors and I did notice the left hand drill mention. I think I broke 3 and there isn't much of them above the surface. The tape on the drill is a good idea, thank you Bob and Bill.

Chris
 
Ditto on what Bob and Barnyard stated about drilling them out...but be sure to soak them a few days first, then the bolts may tend to back out better with the left-hand bit.

And by all means, may SURE your punch mark is centered and you're using sharp bits. It'll make the job a lot smoother.

Wish you the best.
 
Stanton...my brother is lending me his drill sharpener and I do have a decent center punch...and the emphasis is on soaking them so I will start tonight with some PB Blaster. I think Kroil is banned in my state. thanks
 
Whatever you do, ...DO NOT... use an EZ Out extractor...the kind that threads into a hole that you drill into the bolt. 9 times out of 10, they will bust off in the hole that you drilled into the bolt, and now you have a plug in the hole that is FROZEN in place and can't be drilled out. Bob's "Bolts-out" tool is a good one because it works on the outside of the bolt and not won't bust off inside the bolt...

I got mine out by using a MAPP Gas torch, heating it as hot as I could and then a vice grips pliers snapped right on and worked them right out...

Good luck!!

Mike in La Crosse, WI
 
MikeInWisconsin":1d80mwnp said:
Whatever you do, ...DO NOT... use an EZ Out extractor...the kind that threads into a hole that you drill into the bolt. 9 times out of 10, they will bust off in the hole that you drilled into the bolt, and now you have a plug in the hole that is FROZEN in place and can't be drilled out. Bob's "Bolts-out" tool is a good one because it works on the outside of the bolt and not won't bust off inside the bolt...

I got mine out by using a MAPP Gas torch, heating it as hot as I could and then a vice grips pliers snapped right on and worked them right out...

Good luck!!

Mike in La Crosse, WI
Click to expand...

Very interesting! Okay thanks for the heads up...
 
Some sources say that rust is 11 times the volume of the iron from which the rust was formed. That would explain why rusted fasteners are so difficult to remove. Sufficient heat runs the rust into dust. Welding on a nut takes care of both the heat and a way to grip the broken bolt. Getting out 3 broken bolts takes just a few minutes that way. And it is the least risky for collateral damage.
Bolts suspected of being stuck by rust should be heated, if possible, before applying enough force to wring them off. Heating the bolt red hot and letting it cool will often work wonders.
Heat is the magic treatment for rust.
 
I've learned the hard way on easy outs.Who said 9 out of 10 will break off is right.The suggestion of heat is the way to go! Now, I mentioned this on here before and didn't anyone call me crazy,which was a surprise because that is what I thought when an old gentleman told me this.Get a good pair of safety glasses and a masonary bit close to the size of your easy out.Take your time and the masonary bit will chip away the easyout.I know it sounds crazy but it works...
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top