How To Easily Remove A Stripped Hex Screw: Step-by-Step Guide And Tips

Stripped hex screws can bring your project to a screeching halt. Did you know there are over a dozen ways to tackle this headache? Our guide will walk you through simple solutions that get those stubborn screws moving again.

Keep reading, and let’s turn this around!

Main insights

• Use a rubber band, friction drops, or a latex glove to increase grip on the stripped screw.
• If those don’t work, try locking pliers, a T – handle hex wrench, or cutting a new slot for more torque.
• Heat can expand the metal and make it easier to remove screws that are stuck due to rust or sealants.
• Screw extractors and drilling are good options when other methods fail. Always wear safety glasses when using power tools.
• For really tough screws, you might need epoxy glue or unconventional methods like tapping with a hammer or using a chisel.

Tools and Materials Required

 

Before tackling that stubborn stripped hex screw, make sure you’ve got your toolbox ready. You’ll need a few specialized items, ranging from basic hand tools to some clever helpers that can make the extraction process smoother.

Allen wrenches

Allen wrenches, or hex keys, are the go-to tools for working with hex screws. They fit into the hexagonal shape of a screw and let you turn it to tighten or loosen. In 1910, someone named Allen made these handy tools official.

Now many people use them in all kinds of building and fixing jobs.

Choose the right allen wrench size to work on your screw. Using one that’s too small or too big can hurt both the screw and the tool. You want a snug fit so you can turn the screw without slipping and messing up its head even more.

If your allen wrench doesn’t work because the screw is stripped, you might need to get creative with other ways to fix your problem.

Channel lock pliers

Channel lock pliers are great for getting a strong hold on a stripped allen bolt with a raised head. They adjust to fit different sizes and the handles lock, so they don’t slip off while you twist.

These pliers help you grip tightly and turn bolts or screws that won’t move easily. Use them to clamp down on the bolt head and apply force until it starts to loosen up.

For stubborn nuts or bolts, try locking pliers like vice grips. They can grab onto things that are round and smooth better than regular ones. Once clamped on, you can twist counterclockwise to remove the stuck piece without it slipping away.

After using channel lock pliers, if the screw still won’t come out, keep reading for more tips on what to do next.

Friction drops

Friction drops are great for getting a better grip on stripped screws. You can put them right on your allen wrench or the screw head. This helps your tools grab onto the screw more tightly and can make it easier to unscrew or tighten it up.

Using friction drops is good when working with metal because it doesn’t scratch or hurt the surface.

Screw Grab Liquid is one kind of friction drop that works well for these tough jobs. Once you’ve tried using friction drops, if the screw still won’t budge, you might want to grab some pliers to help you out.

Rubber band

A rubber band could be the answer to your stripped screw problem. Put a wide rubber band flat over the top of the screw. This gives something for your screwdriver to grip onto when you turn it.

It’s like adding a layer that helps catch on the stripped edges, so you can move that stubborn screw.

You might also try pliers to twist out a tough bolt. Wrap a rubber band around the pliers’ jaws for even more hold on that slippery metal. With this extra friction, you stand a better chance at getting the bolt or screw moving again without slipping off and hurting yourself or damaging anything else.

Epoxy

Epoxy is a powerful adhesive that comes in handy when you have a stripped screw hole. It’s like glue for screws! When your allen screws won’t stay put because the threads are worn out, mix two-part epoxy and spread it into the hole.

Stick an old allen wrench or bolt in there before it dries. Let it set, and then you can turn the wrench to tighten or loosen as needed.

For really stubborn problems, like when a threaded insert gets stripped, epoxy can save the day again. Fill up the screw hole with this strong paste and let it harden completely. Once it’s solid, you’ll be able to fasten new screws into place without any trouble.

This method helps you fix things around the house without having to drill new holes which can be tough work!

Multi tool

After setting the epoxy, you might still have a stubborn stripped screw on your hands. This is where a multi tool shines. The oscillating multitool can tackle the tricky task of removing that pesky stripped hex screw.

Use this versatile power tool to cut a new slot in the screw head. Now you can use a flathead screwdriver to turn it out easily.

The multi tool isn’t just for cutting; it also works well to grind down metal powder around screws or bolts that are stuck tight. With its precise control and various attachments, you’ll find this handy device saves time and effort even when dealing with the most stubborn hardware problems like stripped allen bolts or screws.

Just make sure you wear safety glasses while using it!

Screw extractor kit

A screw extractor kit is a must-have for anyone trying to remove a stripped allen screw. This handy set comes with various sizes of extractors and other tools you need to get out damaged screws.

You use the extractor by slowly turning it counterclockwise while pushing down hard. The threads on the extractor grab onto the messed-up head of the screw and help you pull it out.

To start, pick an extractor that fits well in the hex hole of your stripped bolt. Make sure it’s snug so it can work right. With steady pressure and a careful turn, the bolt begins to move until you’re able to take it completely out.

Step-by-Step Guide

 

Our step-by-step guide provides you with practical solutions to tackle that stubborn stripped hex screw, ensuring a hassle-free removal process; keep reading for the insights that’ll make the job much simpler.

Using a rubber band

Place a rubber band over the head of your stripped screw. Make sure it’s flat and covers the entire area. This creates traction between your allen key or screwdriver and the damaged screw head.

Now, gently press down with your tool and slowly turn counterclockwise to remove the stripped hex screw. Keep everything steady as you work. If the rubber slips off, just reset it and try again until you get enough grip to loosen that stubborn screw.

Next up is switching to a T-handle hex wrench for more torque power.

Switching to a T-handle hex wrench

A T-handle hex wrench is a handy tool for tough screws. It gives you more power to twist and better control. Make sure the size matches your screw! This helps stop damage to the hex sides.

Using this tool makes taking out a stripped hex screw easier in lots of cases. Push down hard and turn slowly. Grip firmly with both hands, then push and turn until the bolt moves.

Next, try adding friction drops if the screw is still stuck.

Applying friction drops

Put a few drops of friction liquid into the hex hole of your stripped screw. This will make it easier for your Allen wrench to grip inside. You can also put drops on the head of the screw to help with getting it out.

Let the drops sit for a minute before you try turning the bolt again. The added grip from the friction liquid might be just what you need to get that stubborn screw moving.

Use your Allen wrench and give it another go. Sometimes, adding this extra stickiness is all it takes for your tool to catch hold and turn that tricky little screw right out!

Gripping the screw with pliers

After the friction drops have had a chance to work, it’s time to use some muscle. Locking pliers are your best friend here. Grab the screw by its sides with the pliers. Make sure they’re tight but not too hard; you don’t want to break anything more.

Now, twist gently right and left. This can help loosen up that stubborn screw.

Next, turn the pliers counterclockwise while pushing down lightly. Keep going until you feel the screw start to move. If it gives even a little bit, you’re on the right track! Keep twisting slowly and steadily until that pesky stripped screw comes all the way out.

Tapping the screw with a hammer and screwdriver

If gripping the screw with pliers didn’t do the trick, try a different approach. Take your hammer and carefully tap the handle of your screwdriver while it’s in the slot of the stripped screw.

This can help make a better grip for turning. Be sure to hit lightly so you don’t damage anything around the screw. Use this technique especially if you’ve already applied rust penetrant; tapping can help work it deeper into threads and make it easier to loosen that stubborn screw.

Epoxying an old allen wrench to the bolt

Once you’ve tried tapping the screw, another method is using epoxy. This can be a great way to get out a stubborn stripped allen screw. First, find an old allen wrench that fits as closely as possible into the stripped head bolt.

Mix some epoxy glue following the package’s instructions. Then put a small amount of this strong adhesive on the end of your allen wrench and press it into the screw head.

Hold it in place for as long as the epoxy needs to set. This usually takes a few minutes. The glue makes your allen wrench stick tightly to the bolt, so now you have made your own special tool! Now try turning the stuck bolt again with your new tool.

With careful turning, you might just loosen that pesky stripped screw right out of its spot.

Using a screw extractor

Get out your screw extractor kit for this tough job. Choose a bit slightly larger than the stripped screw head. Secure it to your drill, and set the drill to reverse. Push down hard as you turn on the drill — this makes the extractor dig into the screw head.

Keep going until you feel it catch; now you can start turning slowly. The reversed threads will grip tighter as they go, helping pull that stubborn screw right out.

If that doesn’t work, try tapping gently on top of the extractor with a hammer to help it get a better hold. Once snug inside, twist counterclockwise with force but steady hands – patience is key here! As it latches onto those damaged edges good and tight, that old screw should finally budge free from its spot without hurting what’s around it.

Drilling the screw out

Drilling the screw out can be a good way to tackle a stripped hex screw. First, choose a drill bit that’s just right for the size of your screw. Put on safety glasses to protect your eyes.

Then, set your electric drill to reverse and place the bit in the center of the screw head. Push down lightly and go slow as you drill straight into the head of the screw.

If you need more help, try making a small guide hole for easier drilling. Use an electric drill to make a 1/8 inch pilot hole in the middle of the stripped screw. This helps guide your larger bit and makes it easier to remove that stubborn bolt without slipping off or damaging surrounding areas.

Keep steady pressure and control as you work, so you don’t hurt yourself or damage anything else!

Heating the screw

Heating the screw can make it easier to remove a stripped allen screw, especially from metal. First, be sure to wear safety glasses for protection. Then grab a butane or propane torch and light it up.

Point the flame tip right at the stubborn screw until it starts getting hot. The heat helps expand the metal, which can break up any rust or lock-tite seal. After you’ve heated it well, take your screwdriver and carefully try turning that hot screw counterclockwise.

Keep pressing down hard as you twist the tool to get that stuck piece moving. If done right, with patience and steady heat application, those tight threads will give in just enough for you to whisk away that once-stubborn stripped bolt.

Moving on from heat strategies, let’s explore how careful cutting can also solve this problem with “Trying a torx wrench”.

Expert Tips and Techniques

4. Expert Tips and Techniques: For those tough cases where the usual methods fall short, our expert tips dive into unconventional yet effective techniques that can make all the difference in freeing up that stubborn screw.

Unlock pro-level strategies to tackle even the most challenging hardware hurdles with confidence.

Trying a torx wrench

If you have a stripped hex screw, grab a torx wrench. A torx wrench fits into the screw head better than some other tools. It can grip the sides tightly. With this tool, you put less stress on the damaged area while turning the bolt.

Use firm pressure and turn slowly with your torx wrench. This way, you might get enough hold to twist that stubborn screw out. The shape of a torx bit digs into the worn edges just right, giving you more power to loosen the screw without slipping.

Cutting a slot in the screw head

Grab your safety glasses and a Dremel tool from your kit. Carefully cut a straight line across the top of the stripped screw. This new slot will let you use a flat-head screwdriver to turn the screw.

Push hard and slowly twist the screwdriver to remove that stubborn screw.

Next, consider using an angle grinder if you need a deeper groove for better grip.

Creating a groove with an angle grinder

After cutting a slot in the screw head and if that doesn’t work, an angle grinder is another powerful way to tackle a tough screw. This tool has a rotating blade strong enough to slice through metal.

Carefully, you can use it to make a straight groove on top of the stripped hex screw. This new line gives your tool somewhere to go and helps you get that stubborn screw out. Always wear safety glasses because the grinder can throw sparks and bits of metal.

Use steady hands as you guide the angle grinder over the screw head. You want just one clean cut deep enough for your tool to grab onto. Go slow; rushing might damage more than just the stripped bolt.

Once you have this neat groove, try using a flat-head screwdriver or any similar tool to twist out the problem piece without slipping off again.

Using a heat gun

A heat gun can help get out a stripped allen screw. Before you start, put on protective gloves and goggles to stay safe. First, add some penetrating oil to the screw. Let it soak in.

Now, grab your heat gun. Heat up the area around the stripped hex screw carefully without making it too hot.

Once you’ve warmed up the screw, take a bolt extractor or a screw extractor tool to remove it. The heat makes the metal expand and then contract as it cools down—this can loosen the grip on the threads inside and make turning easier.

Use this trick with other methods like pliers or an Allen wrench for even better results.

Alternative Methods

5. Alternative Methods: Discover unorthodox yet effective tricks for outwitting that stubborn stripped hex screw and keep your DIY project on track – delve into the full guide for all the clever hacks waiting to be unveiled.

Using a latex glove to gain grip

Put on a latex glove when you need to grip a stripped hex screw. The rubber adds traction, making it easier for your tools to catch onto the screw. This trick helps with screws that are hard to move without slipping.

It works great for all kinds of tough screws, such as Allen screws and broken bolts. Just wrap your gloved finger around the screw or use the glove material between the tool and the screw head.

This method avoids more damage while you apply force.

Using a hammer and chisel

Grab your hammer and chisel to tackle a stripped screw. Carefully place the chisels point on top of the screw head. Gently tap it with the hammer to notch a small line across it. This new groove can help you get the grip you need.

You can now use a flathead screwdriver in this slot to turn and remove the screw.

Make sure you wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from metal bits that might fly off when you chisel a new slot into the head of that stubborn screw! Chiseling should be slow and controlled.

Hit too hard, and you might damage what’s around the screw or break something important. Keep hitting lightly until there’s a good enough groove for your tool to catch onto, then try turning again with confidence!

FAQs

1. What should I do if I’ve got a stripped hex screw?

If you have a stripped hex screw, grab the correct size Allen wrench and gently try to turn it. If that doesn’t work, there are other methods like using a rubber band, cutting a slot for a flathead screwdriver, or using special tools like screw extractor bits.

2. Can applying heat help remove a stripped Allen bolt?

Yes, sometimes applying heat around the surface of the stripped Allen bolt can make it expand and then shrink as it cools down which might make it easier to remove with your tool kit.

3. Where can I find tools to remove a completely stripped hex screw?

You can find tools like drill bits and screw extractors at your local hardware store to help you take out a completely stripped screw from furniture or other items.

4. How do I use pliers to get out a stripped Allen head?

First, make sure you’re wearing safety glasses. Then grip the outside edges of the Allen head with pliers and turn counterclockwise slowly. If there’s enough space around the allen head to fit your tool in this can be an effective method.

5. Will drilling aid in removing stripped hex screws?

Drilling can be helpful when other methods fail: choose metal-cutting drill bit that’s small enough not to destroy your item but big enough to eat into the screw so you will need only one punch points worth of hole before setting your extractor in place with some taps from hammer while turning following up by trying reverse mode on drill really slow!

6. Is there an easy trick for getting rid of stubborn screws without fancy tools?

Using something as simple as wide rubber band might give extra grip when placed over top cover part where cut lines normally show on object itself – lay across here beforehand trying push pressure down whilst also rotating hand back forth until start loosening; handyman secret!