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Subject: To quote Douglas Adams 'DON'T PANIC!' Author: Shayne : member since July, 2005 : 6583 posts Posted on: 2006-01-16 01:38:18

:-)
First go to a tool supply outlet and purchase a 1/8 inch reverse drill bit (AKA left hand drill bit). If you don't have a centre punch and screw extractor set pick these up too. At least get an extractor or two for the 1/8" (3MM) bit.
Not sure what kind of mess the PO made but even damage to the head can be repaired simply but lets not get ahead of ourselves.

Using the centre punch make a mark as close to dead centre as possible in the damaged cap screw. Using the reversing drill bit very carefully begin to drill down the centre staying square. If you have trouble centering the bit use the centre punch to make a deeper guide. Most times drilling in conjunction with the tap by the centre punch are enough so that when you get 1/4" (6MM) inch into the material the drill simply unscrews the broken screw.

Don't drill much farther than 3/8" if it does not self extract.
Now tap in the EZ Out (screw extractor) but just gently and try to unscrew it. Tap a little more if that doesn't work but the LAST thing you want to do is break off tool steel inside the screw so be very careful!!
If the head material is damaged or the threads are damaged you will need to repair it using plastic steel products like Devcon and a Helicoil thread repair kit. If you need further directions let me know.

Shayne
525iTA
533i

• Valve cover . . . how screwed am I? - UNCGQ 2006-01-16 01:16:27 (1119 views)
  • To quote Douglas Adams 'DON'T PANIC!' - Shayne 2006-01-16 01:38:18 (13148 views)
    • You might consider just leaving it. - johan750 2006-01-16 10:44:59 (682 views)
      • Re: You might consider just leaving it. - UNCGQ 2006-01-16 23:45:33 (702 views)
    • Re: To quote Douglas Adams 'DON'T PANIC!' - Bryce 2006-01-16 03:17:28 (733 views)