I have this 1993 trek multi track 750 (not that matters). The previous owner put the screws for the rack mount in backwards (from the wheel side, not cross threaded). One is of course stuck. There's not a lot of room to work with and the head is beginning to strip. Even the right size Allen key isn't working.
Any suggestions on the best way to remove it?
Thank you in advance.
by Helfrd0771
5 Comments
Vice-grips on the head
Use some good penetrating fluid, like kroil/aerokroil, give it a couple hours and try the Allen key again. You can try some heat, too, but enough heat to really make a difference will probably also be enough to burn the paint off that area. If an Allen key ends up stripping it you can try vice grips/pliers on the bolt head but if it’s really stuck that will probably just end up shearing the bolt head off. If it’s stuck enough that the bolt head shears then you would have ended up drilling it out anyway.
Soak in penetrating oil from both sides and let it sit at least overnight.
As in another comment, first try needlenose vise grips on the head.
If that doesn’t work, dremel a flat screwdriver slot across the head. Attack with a stubby flat stubby screwdriver with wrench flats or a bit. One hand is pushing it in hard, the other is turning it with a wrench.
Since the socket is messed up, you are going to replace it anyways. The good news is that it looks like stainless steel.
Hit it with PB blaster and let it sit for a couple days.
Attack with visegrips or channel locks.
If the head snaps off, drill it from the outside. Cutting oil will help.
Clean the remains with an M5 tap. Back up often to get the chips out.
Whoever allows M5 bolts with 3mm hex fitting to be made needs to be drawn and quartered