How to Get a Broken Screw Out of a Car Engine
If you’re working on your car engine and you break a screw, don’t panic. There are a few simple steps you can follow to remove the broken screw and get your engine back up and running.
Step 1: Gather Your Tools
You will need the following tools to remove a broken screw from a car engine:
- A drill
- A drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the broken screw
- A screw extractor
- A pair of pliers
- Safety glasses
Step 2: Safety First
Before you begin, put on your safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris. Also, be sure to disconnect the battery from your car to prevent any electrical shocks.
Step 3: Drill a Pilot Hole
Use the drill to drill a pilot hole into the center of the broken screw. The pilot hole should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the screw extractor.
Step 4: Insert the Screw Extractor
Insert the screw extractor into the pilot hole. The screw extractor should be slightly larger than the diameter of the broken screw.
Step 5: Turn the Screw Extractor
Use the pliers to turn the screw extractor counterclockwise. The screw extractor will bite into the broken screw and begin to remove it from the engine.
Step 6: Remove the Screw
Once the screw extractor has removed the broken screw from the engine, you can use the pliers to remove the screw extractor from the screw.
Step 7: Clean the Threads
Once the broken screw has been removed, use a tap to clean the threads in the engine block. This will help to ensure that the new screw will fit properly.
Step 8: Install the New Screw
Install the new screw into the engine block. Be sure to tighten the screw to the proper torque specifications.
Tips
- If the broken screw is too close to another part of the engine, you may need to use a special tool called a screw extractor set. These sets come with a variety of different sized screw extractors that can be used to remove screws from tight spaces.
- If the broken screw is made of a hard material, such as steel, you may need to use a drill bit that is made of a harder material, such as carbide.
- If you are having trouble removing the broken screw, you can try soaking it in a penetrating oil for a few hours. This will help to loosen the screw and make it easier to remove.
Conclusion
Removing a broken screw from a car engine can be a frustrating experience, but it is not impossible. By following these simple steps, you can remove the broken screw and get your engine back up and running in no time.
