Extractor Tools For Removing Stubborn, Burred Screw Heads

Stripped screws can be a pain to remove, but a screw extractor can be a handy solution. Screw extractors are designed to remove damaged screws and are typically made of strong carbon steel. They come in different sizes, so it's important to choose the right one for your screw. The process of using a screw extractor involves drilling a hole in the screw head and then using the extractor to grip and drill out the screw. This can be done with a power drill or manually with a screwdriver. To prevent screws from stripping in the first place, it's recommended to use the correct screw and screwdriver for the application and to consider using a manual screwdriver instead of a power drill to have more control.

Screw extractors can be used with any standard power drill

Screw extractors are a handy tool to have in your toolbox, especially if you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional tradesperson. They can save you time and frustration when dealing with stubborn, stripped, or broken screws and bolts. The good news is that screw extractors can be used with any standard power drill, making the extraction process much simpler and more efficient.

Screw extractors are designed to fit into a pre-drilled hole in the screw head, allowing you to grab hold of the screw from the inside and twist it out. They come in various sizes to fit different screw heads, and some even include matching drill bits for added convenience. Most screw extractors are made of strong carbon steel or high-speed steel, ensuring durability and effectiveness.

When using a screw extractor with your power drill, it's important to set your drill in reverse. Start by inserting the cutting bit of the extractor into the damaged screw and using your drill to create a smooth hole. Then, switch to the pointed side of the extractor and drill into the hole you just made to loosen and rotate the screw out.

Additionally, some screw extractor sets come with a handy carry case, making it easy to store and organise your extractors when they're not in use. So, whether you're tackling a DIY household project or working on an automotive task, a screw extractor set that works with any standard power drill will make your job much easier.

Screw extractors are made from strong carbon steel

Carbon steel is an ideal material for screw extractors as it is strong and durable, yet still flexible enough to be formed into the spiral flutes that are a key feature of screw extractor design. This combination of strength and flexibility means that carbon steel screw extractors can withstand the forces involved in removing stubborn screws without breaking or deforming.

The use of carbon steel also allows screw extractors to be produced at a relatively low cost, making them affordable and accessible to both professionals and home DIY enthusiasts. Carbon steel is also widely available and easily worked, making it a practical choice for screw extractor manufacturers.

In addition to their construction from strong carbon steel, screw extractors are often coated with a black oxide finish. This finish further enhances the durability of the tool and provides a level of corrosion resistance, helping to prevent rust and extend the working life of the extractor.

Screw extractors come in different sizes to fit various screw heads

Screw extractors come in a variety of sizes to fit different screw heads. The sizes of screw extractors are directly derived from the corresponding screw and bolt sizes. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that the extractor size is suitable for the specific type and size of the screw. Most screw extractors are available in kits with multiple tools of various sizes for convenience and ease of use. This is ideal for professionals and those who regularly require removers suitable for different sizes.

Screw extractors can be used to remove small stripped screws. You will simply need to follow the same process as you would for removing a standard-sized screw with a stripped head. The only difference is that you will need to use a smaller screw extractor set.

The Alden Grabit Pro Bolt and Screw Extractor 4-Piece Kit is one of the cheapest and easiest-to-use screw extractor kits. It has a high success rate with smaller fasteners and comes in a small carrying case that can fit in your pocket. The kit includes four bit sizes, which are the most common you'll find.

The Topec 35-Piece Screw Extractor and Drill Bit Set gives you plenty of options for removing all types of fasteners, ranging from small screws to large bolts. The kit includes 16 drill bits, 13 multi-spline extractors, and 6 spiral extractors.

The Neiko Multispline Screw and Bolt Extractor Set includes a broad range of sizes, with 25 extractors ranging from 1/8 inch to 7/8 inch. The hexagonal head fits into standard sockets for optimal torque, and the sizes are etched into the metal for easy identification.

The Alden Grabit Micro Broken Bolt Extractor 4-Piece Kit is ideal for removing tiny damaged screws from electronics such as laptop computers. It includes machine screw sizes 1, 2, 3, and 4, with a plastic carrying case to keep the bits organised.

In addition to kits with multiple tools, individual screw extractors are also available in various sizes. For example, the 4pc Screw Extractor Set includes four different sizes (#1, #2, #3, and #4) to tackle screw heads from 1.85mm to 2.84mm.

Screw extractors can be used to remove broken bolts

To use a screw extractor, first choose the right size for your screw. Then, set your drill to reverse and insert the first side of the extractor bit into the damaged screw head. Drill a smooth hole, and then replace the first side with the second side of the extractor. Finally, drill out the screw.

Screw extractors are reusable and can be used with any standard power drill. They are made of strong carbon steel and often come in kits with multiple sizes.

In addition to screw extractors, there are several other methods to remove broken bolts. These include using a different screwdriver, pliers, a rubber band, duct tape, a flathead screwdriver and hammer, friction drops, a left-handed drill bit, a rotary tool, or welding a nut onto the screw.

Screw extractors can be used to remove stripped and rusty screws

Screw extractors are an effective way to remove stripped and rusty screws. They are designed to remove damaged screws and can be used with any standard power drill.

Screw extractors have two sides. Side one is used to create a smooth hole in the screw head, and side two is used to grip the hole and drill out the screw.

To use a screw extractor, first, choose the right size to fit your screw. Then, set your drill to reverse. Insert side one of the extractor bit into the screw head and use your drill to create a smooth hole. Next, insert side two of the extractor into the hole and use your drill to rotate the screw out.

Before using a screw extractor, it is recommended to apply a penetrating liquid to the screw, especially if it is rusty. This will help to break down any corrosion bonding the screw to what it is screwed into. Liquids such as penetrating oil, cola, lemon juice, and oven cleaner can be used to break down rust.

If a screw extractor is not available, there are other methods that can be used to remove stripped and rusty screws. These include:

• Using a different screwdriver: Try using a screwdriver that is a different style or size to get a better grip on the screw.
• Rubber bands: Place a rubber band over the screw head to help the screwdriver catch the threadings.
• Pliers: If the screw head is raised, grip the sides with pliers and turn it manually.
• Hammer and screwdriver: Place the tip of a flathead screwdriver on the screw head and lightly tap the handle with a hammer a few times. This will help the screwdriver dig into the screw head. Then, try turning the screw to loosen it.
• Friction drops: Apply friction drops to the screw head to help the screwdriver get a better grip.
• Drill with a left-handed bit: Use a left-handed drill bit in reverse to dig into the screw head and loosen it.
• Cut a new slot: Use a rotary tool to cut a new slot in the screw head, then use a flathead screwdriver to turn it.
• Weld a nut: Weld a nut onto the screw head, then use a wrench to grip the nut and turn the screw counterclockwise.

Frequently asked questions