Flat head screwdriver doesn’t have enough grip, any ideas on how to move on from here? I need to remove the rotor to replace spokes on the wheel.
by Late-Shape2769
Flat head screwdriver doesn’t have enough grip, any ideas on how to move on from here? I need to remove the rotor to replace spokes on the wheel.
by Late-Shape2769
5 Comments
Time to drill it out.
Grab a drill bit half the size of the width of a screw you got out. Attach to drill. Stick a dab of oil on the busted screw. Drill slow. As soon as you get through back it out. Then you will very likely just need to use a pick to push the shards out of the way. Done.
Or go to the hardware store and get a small screw extractor bit for like $10.
[Something like this would work for sure.](https://youtube.com/shorts/3gJwmATXFYY?si=oL6x82Tb9URWHC2j)
You might be able to grab the bolt by the outside with a vice grip. I’ve done that before.Carefully clamp the bolt, then use the tightening bolt on the vice to tighten it hard. It’ll give some leverage too.
Edit: … When you attach it next time use some grease on the threads.
OP, before you try anything else, please try this trick. I can almost guarantee you it’ll work here.
Pull that end cap off, pound that axle through the hubshell a little bit so it’s flush or recessed into the hub, and spin the rotor off. It’ll take the bolt with it.
This is much easier on some hubs over others, but it looks like you have a viable candidate here. Also, sometimes just turning the rotor to the left a little will give you just enough rotation of that bolt to loosen it up. It’s great when it works and you’re not out anything when it doesn’t.
Large locking pliers / Vise grips are the first thing I try. That will give you maximum bite and reduce the chance of slipping. If you have a dremel, you can also try knocking off two sides flat so you get even better purchase with the pliers or a wrench. Or you can dremel out a deep narrow notch and use an impact driver to get it off if you have enough material to work with