Broken bolts

[MillBubb]

Removing the exhaust plate has resulted in 5 broken bolts. Daunting task I think Should I try to heat the block then use an EZ-out or just try to centerdrill all the bolts (5) out? http://i299.photobucket.com/albums/mm307/catch58/IMG_1261-1.jpg I've sprayed PB Blast on all the holes.

 

[Barnacle_Bill]

Re: Broken bolts

It looks like you can get vice grips on all of them. Heat the bolt with a propane torch, then start working them back and forth slowly with the vice grips. It may just move very little at first but they will come out.

 

[jbjennings]

Re: Broken bolts

I'd try the heat like bhile said. If that didn't work, I hear a left handed drill bit works well. You might want to file the end of the bolt flat and use a center punch if you can--you need it centered perfectly. I WOULD NOT use an EZ-out for any reason. You'll just break it off in the bolt and create a bigger problem. If I was having too much trouble, I'd take the powerhead off and let a machine shop worry about it.
I think with a little heat you may be o.k., though.
GOod luck,
JBJ

 

[jonesg]

Re: Broken bolts

Someone please shoot the guy who invented EZ outs,

those bolts will come out, grind 2 flats on the end and use vice grips, PBlaster , heat and time.

You can also install 2 nuts if the threads are still good, lock one against the other, tighten it in first, then try unscrewing, but give it time and lots of penetrent..

Machinsts are known to spot weld a nut onto broken threads , the heat from the welder vaporises the corrosion.

BTW, machinsts magazine ran tests of all the penetrating fluids, the winner was home brewed acetone and transmission fluid, it beat them all by a wide margin.

 

[guy74]

Re: Broken bolts

On broken studs (bolts) of 5/16 dia or larger, in somthing I don't want to take the chance of damaging by welding a nut onto the broken stud (Most of the time if I welded a nut onto the broken bolt, and it was screwed into aluminum, the threads came out on the stud), I drill an 1/8 inch hole though the broken stud. Then I use Mistic metal mover (http://www.misticmetal.com/) though the hole, let it soak overnight. Every time I could simply unscrew the stud the next morning.
My $.02