Stripped Hex Head...Advice...

[cmeason]

So I cracked my reverse gate support in TWO places, so I have to replace...When trying to remove it, I stripped one of the hex head on the socket screws (4 stainless steel looking bolts)...I bored it out and hammered in the next size hex to no avail...It still has the head but I cant seem to get a grip on it with vice grips...

ANY SUGGESTIONS???

Thanks
Clint

 

[Dr Honda]

Slot it with a cutting wheel, and use a big flat head screwdriver, or drill it out, and re-tap the threads.

 

[stfoulks]

You can also go to Lowes and buy a screw extractor (Kobalt makes them -$10). I had the same exact prblem you're having. I took a regular 1/8" drill bit and drill the hole in the head a little deeper, then this screw extractor worked like a champ... of course the above idea works too, but now I have a new toy!

Kobalt 5-Piece #1-5 Screw Extractor Set

 

[cmeason]

Thanks for the suggestions...Went and bought a screw extractor...Worked great..That bolt was in there!!