Yes, i've entered the "i stripped a torx bolt " hall of shame.
I have a stubborn bolt that seems to be welded on compared to the other 3 bolts on the case to my 5 speed r65 gearbox.

Should I trust the spiral screw extractor method? I mean this baby is so tight Im afraid I'd break the spiral screw.

What would you all suggest for a very "tight" situation?

Thanks!

 

The screw extractors work. Get a kit that includes the matching left handed drill bit to make a good starting hole. Put all the other bolts in and tighten them real good to remove tension on the bad one.

Last one I had to do was on a BMW transmission oil pan. Was scared going in, but it came out pretty easy with the extractor (after drilling the guide hole).

 

Plan B is a tiny cut off wheel and a Dremel. The metal-rated ones cut well. Assuming you are trying to remove the transmission and will be able to remove the nub once the tranny is out.

 

The actual bolt is a circular head torx bolt.

as seen in the first set of pictures, #9, picture 000_2009.jpg (9 of 10)
of
wilkrod's post:
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...mentation.html

So it is quite different in that it is "low" and circular on top.

....nice.

we'll see

 

That is the shape I was dealing with. Just harder working upside down under a tranny.... Used one of the tools in this little kit. Drill end first into the stripped out hole, then tapered end. Running drill in reverse. Worked great.


(pay attention as some sellers are showing delivery dates after Christmas).

But, given that the head is sticking out and isn't in a recess, the dremel with a tiny cutoff wheel would probably knock it off in a minute or two.

 

You are using some sort of liquid penetrate, such as PB Blaster?

 

I gotta get some PB Blaster. I only have Liquid Wrench.
Anyways I ran and picked up a "Cobalt" 5/32 drill bit and a bolt (screw) extractor:One made for Automotive bolts and it was the matching size, 5/32 I think or the one below a 1/4"

Any ways, totally sweating bullets and being as carful and deliberate as possible. The bit cut right through that bolt by way and had to be carful not to go all the way out the tip ;-). I put that extractor in there and it wasn't doing a thing. Little spray...little tapping.... I ALMOST was getting to that snapping point, where you can break the bit.. and then 'SNAP!"

i'm thinking C-rap.......

Nope... it cracked that little bolt loose and I was home free.

Turn baby turn!

What I didn't know, which I learned today, is to tap these specific torx nuts with a copper hammer prior.

 

Great! If you're in a pinch, a 50-50 mix of acetone and ATF works better than any of the commercial penetrating oil products. But, it's crazy flammable, so don't combine with heating...

 

I hate those stupid things.

 

my stupid thing looks just like that!