How do i remove stripped hex screws from my Gmaxx
 

Hi Guys

I need help

I want to replace my skid plates and found that all the hex nuts where the skids are attached are stripped. The have had lock nut applied to them years ago. What is the best way to take these out?

Cheers

Three options.
1: You can try a screw extractor, they are available at many hardware stores.
2: Use a cutoff wheel in a dremel to cut a slot in the head of the screw so you can use a flatblade screw driver to turn it.
3: This is the "if all else fails" option. Drill just the head of the screw off. Using the right size bit and going just deep enough is key here. Because you want to leave as much of the shaft of the screw behind as possible so you can grab it with a pair of pliers and turn it out. Compare a screw of the same size with your drill bits and use the largest one possible. This will help ensure you drill out the head first before the shaft of the screw.

I assume you meant locktite (or another thread locker) not lock nut. If thats the case, heating the screw with a lighter will help release the screw. I would do this before attempting to turn the screw with any of the above methods.

I personally like option three it potentially keeps one from putting slots in a nice skid plate or chassis bottom. It doesn't help much though once you get the skid plate off if you cant turn the screw shank.

I;d try the slot first...

I have tried the slot already and still no good.
I might have to try option 3
Drill the screw out.

That's why it's the last resort! Lol. Especially on a skidplate which is generally only around 3mm thick to begin with, then it's countersunk leaving even less of the little bugger to grab. Been there, done that, got lucky a few times, others not so much. I recommend a pair of vice grips vs pliers for the grabbing btw.

If you can't grab it and end up having to drill it out, cut the screw off flat first and use a drill press and clamp your work to it if you have access to one. The drill bit will be less likely to walk into the soft aluminum surrounding the screw. Which will happen faster than you think, even after you've got it started so go slow. Gotta love the things you learn working on a Maxx truck.

Another method is to find a slightly bigger "torx bit" and hammer it into the stripped head.

The hammering will help to loose the bolt and break the thread locker

There is a tool out called the Alden screw extractor. I had to buy a set for some 3" corse thread drywall screws. They worked like a charm. They have a left hand drill on one end and a sprial cut on the other side. Use a cordless drill and use vice grips to hold the nut that is stripped. Make sur ethey are the Alden brand all other eazy outs suck.

Jeff