Bought a nice old set of ET wheels over the weekend. The only problem is that the screws holding the center cap on are pretty rusty. I REALLY don't wanna have to drill out the broken screws so what good tricks have you used?? So far I tried an impact driver and of course soaking it with some ATF/Acetone - you can see the heads "move" but the screw ain't budgin' Any tips are apprecaited!! Got 20 to get out!!!
Some heat if you can. Try tighting the screw first then loosen. You get any movement keep working them back and forth,going looser a bit at a time.
Just make and use one of these. http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=324084&highlight=screws Amazing! Credit goes to Samiyam for the idea. Ralph
Kroil x3. Used it once for a set of lower rockers on a springer that I figured had become reclaimed by mother natures as hers. Soak, soak, soak. Keep 'em wet
Aerokroil x5!!! I love that stuff! Could also try some PB Blaster(available at any auto parts store)...but Kroil has NEVER let down. Not once(available online only I believe)! After letting them soak in some kroil or something, try hitting downward on the handle of the screwdriver as you twist it too...and like johnevans said, try tightening first and work it back and forth until it lets loose... Good luck!
Because these are such a PITA, I'd use all of the techniques above. I'd heat the head of the screw with a torch, let it cool, add the Kroil and let it work some and then use the impact screwdriver with the correct sized tip. The heat expands the metal breaking the rust seal and letting the Kroil in. The shock of the impact SD breaks it loose. Don't get in a hurry.
Well today was the day - 99% of them were tighter than a Nun's ... Anyways I thought I was being careful and I still managed to break 7 - I guess that's a failing grade ;-( The funny part is that out of those 7 - almost ALL were moving - really surprised me. I can still move the stubs, but they ain't budgin'..yet!!! I 'm debating on welding washers over the studs or just clamping them to the mill table and start drillin'....
I find with a super fine brazing flame on my torch, heat the heads till just red, let cool, heat again, let cool and one more time. Then try moving then a bit. If they move don't rush them. Move back and forward carefully if they seem to be loose enough hit them with penetrating oil of choice. and continue the back forth action. This may work on the stubs too if there is enough left to get a grip on them. Biggest weapon in your arsenal is .....patience
Have you ever used Gibbs Brand penetrant? After using everything on the planet it's now my choice. Go to Roadsters.com and learn all about it. Take the time to read what has been posted, it's interesting. After learning about it you can order it at the same site. Frank
Try this for corroded steel screws in aluminum leave acetylene soot near the screw boss - bring to neutral flame to burn off soot this should leave it at 300-350 degrees (avoids melting) work it back and forth
ATF+BBQ Lighter Fluid - Let soak for 10 minutes or longer. Screwdriver & Hammer - Hold pressure on screwdriver and give it a couple of whacks. Lefty Loosey.
If you mess up the caps let me know. I have 4 new ones that have been sitting in the garage for years.
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