broken bolt - Tricks of the Trade


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Auto Repair Home>> Automotive Repair>> Tricks of the Trade

gene20102010
New User

May 10, 2010, 4:59 PM

Post #1 of 3 (3911 views)

broken bolt	Sign In

Thanks in advance for any help.
I have an old work van 1984 E250 Ford Econoline Van with a V-8.
Had some work done (poorly) and the guy broke off one of the water pump bolts. I have tried and tried to drill it out so I can use an easy out. Plenty of room to work but I keep beaking or burning the bits dull. Is there a titanium or other composite bit I can use? The bolt seems to be case hardened.
Thanks,
gene

Sidom
Veteran / Moderator
Sidom profile image

May 10, 2010, 7:18 PM

Post #2 of 3 (3900 views)

Re: broken bolt	Sign In

That's actually on common problem on those older Fords.

Just a good drill bit should do it. The best thing to do is is soak it down with PB Blaster penetrating oil and let it sit. Make sure you keep it lubed real well while you're drilling.

Another common problem is too high of drill speed. If you're burning bits, you're drilling too fast or not keeping it lube well enough.

Just get a brand new drill in the sizes your need (this way they're nice & sharp), make sure your center punched dead center, start off with a real small size for your pilot hole and go slow & have patience.....

Personally I use lefthand drill bits, I get lucky a lot of times and after bit gets deep enough & the bolt warm enough, the bit will pull the broken bolt out (this is after it's soaked real good)... If you don't do a lot of broken bolts, it wouldn't be worth the investment

nickwarner
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nickwarner profile image

May 10, 2010, 8:11 PM

Post #3 of 3 (3895 views)

Re: broken bolt	Sign In

Is this a bolt going into the timing cover or through it? Either way the cover may have to come off, but if this is one going through the timing cover into the block it'll have plenty to grab with a vise grips. Just make sure to put some heat on the block where it goes in before you try cranking it out or BIG pain awaits. Hopefully it will come out with the penetrant and a good bit as suggested. I've had to deal with these too, so I feel your pain.

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