Expanding Plastite Screw Holes: A Guide To Enlarging And Repairing

Removing a stripped screw from plastic can be challenging, and caution must be exercised to avoid damaging the plastic object. Here are some methods to remove a plastite screw from a hole: using a rubber band to increase friction, applying heat for about 30 seconds, using oil or lubricant, and drilling a pilot hole and using a screw extractor. For plastic screws with no head, one can use a heated flathead screwdriver to create a slot-like grip on the screw head or carefully drill through the center of the screw.

Using a rubber band to increase friction

A rubber band can be an effective tool to help you remove a stripped screw. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use this simple and economical method:

Choose the Right Rubber Band

Select a rubber band that is wider than the screw. It should be wide enough to cover the opening in the screw head. A single, thick rubber band is usually best for this purpose and can be found online or at office supply stores.

Position the Rubber Band

Place the rubber band over the stripped screw. Press part of it flat against the screw head and hold it firmly in place with one hand. Ensure that the rubber band is securely in place and won't slip. If needed, reposition the item with the screw to gain better access.

Insert the Screwdriver

Push the screwdriver into the rubber band and screw head. Make sure the rubber band goes inside the opening of the screw head, moulding with the screw threads to create leverage for the screwdriver. Hold the screwdriver steady, maintaining pressure on the rubber band.

Remove the Screw

Turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to remove the screw. Work slowly and gradually, as the screw will still be difficult to turn. Keep firm pressure on the rubber band, and reposition it if necessary. Continue turning until the screw is loose and can be removed.

Tips for Stuck Screws

If the screw is still stuck, there are a few additional techniques you can try:

• Use a hammer to gently tap the back end of the screwdriver to wedge it deeper into the screw head. This may enable the screwdriver to get a better grip.
• Drill through the screw with a power drill and a 1/8-inch (0.32 cm) drill bit. Position the drill bit in the centre of the screw head and drill straight down until you reach the bottom. Then, try removing the screw with the rubber band and screwdriver again.
• Cut into the screw head with a rotary tool, such as a Dremel, to deepen the screwdriver slot. This will allow the screwdriver to gain better traction.

Remember to keep a variety of screwdriver sizes on hand to accommodate different screw sizes. When working with a rubber band, a screwdriver that is slightly smaller than the screw head may be beneficial.

Additionally, if the rubber band method proves challenging, alternative tools such as pliers or screw extractors can be effective options.

Heating the screw with a torch

If you're working with a stuck Plastite screw, applying heat to the screw with a torch can be an effective method to remove it. Here are some detailed instructions on how to do this safely and effectively:

Firstly, it is important to prepare your workspace and gather the necessary tools. Make sure you are in a well-ventilated area or set up a fan to dissipate any gases produced during the heating process. Have a fire extinguisher nearby as a safety precaution. Put on protective gear, including gloves, eye protection, and non-flammable clothing for your arms and neck.

Before applying heat, use a wire brush to clean the screw and the surrounding area. Apply a lubricant to the screw and let it sit for about 15 minutes to help the process.

Now, you can begin heating the screw with your torch. Start by slowly heating the screw, being careful not to get the threads too warm. You don't need to get the screw red-hot, just consistently warm around the outside.

At this point, you can try tapping the screw a few times with a hammer to help break it loose. If the screw is still stuck, you may need to repeat the heating and tapping process several times.

Once the screw is loose, be careful not to touch it with your bare skin as it will be very hot. Use appropriate tools to unscrew and remove it.

It is important to note that you should only heat the screw itself and not the surrounding area, as this can damage nearby components or materials. Additionally, be cautious of any flammable substances or materials in the vicinity that could be ignited by the torch.

By following these steps, you should be able to successfully remove a stuck Plastite screw using a torch.

Using oil or lubricant

When removing a stuck screw, you can apply a small amount of lubricant or penetrating oil to the screw head to help it come loose. This is particularly useful if the screw is rusty or over-tightened. It is important to use a screwdriver that fits the screw properly, as using one that is too large or too small can strip the head or break the screw.

There are several suitable lubricants that can be used to remove stuck screws. One option is WD-40, a well-known penetrating oil that can help to loosen the screw. Another product that has been recommended for removing stuck screws is Evapo-Rust, which is particularly effective for rusted screws. If you are looking for a natural option, beeswax is a good choice as it lubricates the screw without retaining moisture. Paraffin and teflon are also suitable lubricants.

It is important to avoid using water or saliva as a lubricant, as this can lead to rust. Soap is also not recommended for the same reason. Instead, choose a product that will not add moisture and cause rust.

When applying the lubricant, place a small amount on the screw head and allow it to penetrate into the threads. You may need to wait a few minutes for the lubricant to work before attempting to remove the screw again. If the screw still won't budge, try using a different screwdriver that fits the screw head more securely.

Drilling a hole through the screw

Drilling a hole through a screw is a good method to remove a stuck screw. Here is a detailed, step-by-step guide:

Step 1: Assess the Screw and Choose the Right Drill Bit

Before you begin drilling, it is important to assess the type of screw you are dealing with. The size and material of the screw will determine the appropriate drill bit to use. Select a high-quality drill bit that is specifically designed for drilling through metal. The drill bit you choose should be slightly smaller than the shaft of the screw. As a general rule of thumb, the shaft of the screw is typically narrower than the cross on the screw head. If you are unsure about the exact size, it is recommended to start with a smaller drill bit and gradually work your way up if needed.

Step 2: Put on Safety Gear and Secure the Screw

Drilling through a screw can generate metal shavings and debris, so it is crucial to wear safety gear, such as eye protection, to safeguard your eyes. To ensure a stable drilling process, it is advisable to clamp the screw securely to your work surface, freeing up both hands to handle the drill effectively.

Step 3: Align the Drill Bit and Start Drilling

With your safety gear in place and the screw securely clamped, it's time to align the drill bit with the center of the screw head. Hold the drill as straight as possible and set it to a low speed. Start drilling slowly and carefully into the center of the screw head. Take your time and be cautious not to apply too much pressure, as this can cause the drill bit to break.

Step 4: Gradually Increase Speed and Check Progress

As you continue drilling, you can gradually increase the speed of the drill. Periodically, stop drilling and remove the drill bit to check your progress and clear away any excess metal shavings. This will help prevent the drill bit from overheating and reduce the risk of breakage.

Step 5: Repeat with Larger Drill Bits if Needed

If the screw is still stuck and difficult to remove, don't force it. Instead, try using a slightly larger drill bit and repeat the drilling process. Continue this process, gradually increasing the size of the drill bit until the screw becomes loose and can be easily removed.

Additional Tips:

• If you are dealing with a screw that has a stripped head, you may need to use a screw extractor or a destruction method to remove it.
• For rusted or seized screws, you can try the shock and awe method by spraying penetrating oil and then tapping the screw with a hammer before attempting to drill.
• Always ensure that you are using the correct type of screwdriver for your screws to prevent stripping the screw head.

Using anti cam-out fluid to increase friction

Using Anti-Cam Out Fluid to Increase Friction

Anti-cam out fluids are a great way to increase friction and prevent slippage when removing a screw. They are especially useful when dealing with stripped screws or fasteners that are very tight. By increasing the grip strength between the fastener head and the tool, these fluids can make it easier to remove screws without causing further damage.

One such product is the Vibra-Tite DriveGrip Anti-Cam Out Fluid. This fluid is applied directly to the head of the recessed fastener and can increase the grip strength between the fastener and the driver by up to 700%. It works with all types of screwdrivers, hex keys, pliers, and even sockets. The best part is that it's easy to use—just place a drop or two on the fastener head and you're good to go!

Another option is the Aligh Rite "ScrewGrab". This product also helps to increase grip strength and prevent slippage, making it easier to remove stubborn screws. It is recommended by users who have successfully used it to remove stripped screws.

EZ Grip "Friction Drops" is another anti-cam out fluid that can be used to increase friction. While it may be a little messy to use, it definitely gets the job done.

When using any of these products, it's important to follow the instructions carefully and take the necessary precautions to protect your skin and surfaces from any potential stains or irritation. Always read the reviews before purchasing to ensure the product is suitable for your specific needs.

Frequently asked questions