HELP!! Cam cover bolt striped, can't get it off.

[337]

I've got a big problem! I am currently in the middle of changing the spark plugs, and the cam cover/spark plug boot seals. the front side went really well but I can't get the cam cover off the back off the engine, because the silver round allen key bolts are stripped from the last owner.

How can I get this loose? I've already tried vice grips with no luck, I can't get a grip on the allen key bolt. Any body have any Ideas?It's always the last one that gives the problems huh squint

Lee

 

[Mr Anonymous]

Pick up a screw extractor set at sears or a hardware store and that should do the trick. Just don't try to reuse the bolt!

 

[SHOnuff93]

cut a slot in the top and use a large flathead screwdriver

 

[SHOTOGO]

You may also be able to get a Torx bit slightly larger than the stripped allen hole, gently hammer it in, then turn it out.

 

[SHO--ripper]

this happened to me and i used a flat head to bang in grooves in bolt then i hammered the torx in smooth sailing from there. thumbs_u my 89 silver will be on the road tuesday after i have the exhaust systems switched between my 91 and 89.

 

[SHODUDE]

What ever you do, do NOT use a cheap Easy Out. If it breaks, you are completely screwed.

A carbide tip reverse thread drill bit works pretty good if you can find them. Make sure you used oil or some other kind of lubrication while drilling or the bit will dull quickly. The valve cover bolts are pretty good grade of metal.

 

[337]

Well, It's off now. it was the bolt in the back of the engine, right under the quick connect fuel fittings, so there wasn't much room to work with. I tried tapping in different bits, but the bolt was so tight, I kept making it worse, tried cutting a slot, also like mentioned, but there was absolutely no room to work. What I did end up using ( Now don't laugh) were those Bob Vila striped screw extractors from Sears.

Would this bolt be something I can get from a Ford dealer? Anyway, I'm glad that's it's all put back together and running again.

I appreciate everyones help,

Lee

<small>[ August 11, 2002, 03:54 PM: Message edited by: 337 ]</small>

 

[luigisho]

Those work very well. I would also recommend the extractors they sell for broken bolts. As for new bolts, you can buy them from the dealer but I'm not sure they sell them individually or in sets. I think I went to buy one and I had to buy a pack of 3 or 6 at +-$25/each bolt. See if someone (like shodude)has a used one to sell.

<small>[ August 11, 2002, 03:45 PM: Message edited by: luigisho ]</small>