Tips for removing a...
 

[Closed] Tips for removing a rounded allen bolt?

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Trying to change the bent mech hander on my old Hustler. It has three small 2.5mm allen bolts holding it on. One of the bolts has rounded. I have tried using a Torx tool, a selection of different allen keys and am in the process of filing down a 3mm key which is very tedious using a leatherman. I do not have a drill at my disposal.

Any ideas?


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 11:22 am
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drill/bolt extractor would be best option but otherwise hammer a torx bit into it


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 11:25 am
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Go and beg for help at the local bikeshop!

Take cake and look desperate and embarrassed.


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 11:26 am
 Drac
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Cut a slot with a hacksaw and use a screwdriver.

If you don't have a extractor tool.


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 11:26 am
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I have epoxied in a sacrificial allen key before.


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 11:35 am
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If you have a dremel or similiar, cut a slot with a small cutting wheel. Has the advantage of also putting a load of localised heat into the bolt.


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 12:06 pm
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a brand new hgh quality allen key might have undone it previously, but not now you;ve used a torx head. any of the sugestions above are fine, epoxy in a sacrifical allen key, cut a slot and screwdriver it, drill it, or try and hammer in a slightly larger allen key.


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 12:24 pm
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used a dremel to cut a slot - cheers for the tips!


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 2:32 pm
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Can you get a small multi tooth socket on the outside of the bolt you will need to tap it on with a hammer, has worked for me many times.


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 2:50 pm
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I use a larger Spline tool, tap it in with a hammer, then remove after soaking the bolt in WD40 or the like, It damages the spline toll slightly but it's quicker then cutting a flat head screw it it.


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 3:14 pm
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A shaped C4 charge.


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 3:18 pm
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Can you hammer in the next size up torx bit? Works sometimes depending on the size of rounded hole


 
Posted : 10/09/2010 3:18 pm