I have had to drill my cleat screws out. One set of holes on my Specialized Defroster boots are now unusable. I had in mind that I would use the other set, but they seem to be a different size, and I cannot get the replacement Shimano SH51 cleat screws in. I have cleaned the screw holes out, but still to no avail.
Are the two sets of holes different in size or is it just likely to be persistent crud?
Thanks.
They are the same size. Can you thread a bolt in from the other side (i.e. the inside)? That might clear the threads out.
and invest in some copper grease - if you want to e-mail me I will send you some in a tub - it stops no moving parts from ceasing.
Thanks. I have now learnt my lesson and got some Copper Grease.
As they are winter boots and sealed, I don't believe I can access the other side.
You can't on defrosters due to the waterproof lining. Splurge some silicon sealant onto the sole plate once you're happy with the cleat position, keeps the crud out.
That's a good call with the silicon.
Re-tap the remaining threads?
Not much help to you now, but when my cleat bolts rounded off due to being stuck fast when trying to remove them, I cut the cleat off with a dremel type thing leaving the bolts in place and then soaked them with penetration/3 in 1 oil for a day or so, giving them a slight twist every so often using a pair of Molegrips. Came out Ok without damaging the threads.
Back on the OQ, the threads are the same size so just full of crud.
Rather than using silicon to fill the holes I use candle wax, melt it in and press well in to every gap around the bolts and cleats, as well as into the bolt heads. Leave it to harden then go ride.
Yes it collects grit / muck etc over time but it just melts out with a candle rather than having to hack silicon out, so every three months or so I remove them and redo it. Never had to saw or drill out a set of cleats in the last 10 years since I started doing this.
His shoes have a sealed inner, so you cant get at the plates.
Specialized Defrosters have a grub screw in the other set of bolt holes, use a smaller allen key to remove it and bobs your uncle.