Removing a Stuck Rusted Screw: Easy Out or Drill?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around methods for removing a stuck, rusted screw, specifically addressing techniques such as using an impact driver, drilling, and alternative tools like a Dremel. The context involves the removal of an old sink, which adds practical application to the problem.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Experimental/applied

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests drilling through the screw as a potential solution after an impact driver failed to work.
  • Another participant questions the specifics of the impact driver used and the condition of the screw, noting that they have faced similar issues where the screw head stripped, leading them to drill out the screws.
  • A participant shares their method of using a Dremel with a flat sanding disk to create a deep slot in the screw, followed by using an impact driver to loosen it.
  • Further elaboration on the Dremel method includes advice on undercutting the slot to improve screwdriver engagement and specifying the type of impact driver to use.
  • One participant raises the idea of using heat to melt any plastic wall plugs associated with the screw, cautioning about fire safety.
  • A participant reiterates the initial question about using an Easy Out, describing it as a tapered tapping die with a left-hand thread.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants present multiple competing views on the best method to remove the stuck screw, with no consensus reached on a single effective approach.

Contextual Notes

Some methods discussed depend on the specific condition of the screw and the tools available, with limitations noted regarding the effectiveness of different techniques based on individual experiences.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals facing similar challenges with rusted or stuck screws, particularly in home improvement or repair contexts, may find the shared experiences and methods useful.

austinmca
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How would one go about removing this stuck, rusted screw? Its tip size is 5/8". I tried using an impact driver, but that didn't work. Should I just try to drill through it to break it?
For context, I am getting rid of this old sink.
 
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first item in this video?:
 
Without a photo, it's hard to answer. Is your impact driver a hand impact driver like this?
Impact Driver.jpg

Did the screw not move? Did it break off? Did the head strip out? Did the screwdriver break?

I have had several stuck screws that this impact driver would not move, and the screw head stripped. In those cases, I had to drill out the screws.
 
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I have had that problem. My solution: Use my Dremel with a flat sanding disk (creating a micro angle grinder) and use it to make a deep slot. Then use an impact driver to loosen the screw.
 
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Svein said:
I have had that problem. My solution: Use my Dremel with a flat sanding disk (creating a micro angle grinder) and use it to make a deep slot. Then use an impact driver to loosen the screw.
(I usually use the thin cutoff discs.)

Just to expand on @Svein 's post:
  1. When cutting the new slot, undercut a little bit -- that is, make the base of the slot a tiny bit wider than the top. This helps keep the screwdriver tip engaged in the slot.
  2. The Impact driver should be the type you hit with a hammer, not the powered rotary type. This keeps the screwdriver in the slot during the active time.

Cheers,
Tom
 
austinmca said:
For context, I am getting rid of this old sink.
Is this the usual wall mount screw with that plastic wall plug?

Torch the screw to melt the plastic.
Drawback: stinks.
Be careful with fire safety.
 
Last edited:
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austinmca said:
How would one go about removing this stuck, rusted screw? Its tip size is 5/8". I tried using an impact driver, but that didn't work. Should I just try to drill through it to break it?
For context, I am getting rid of this old sink.
Us it feasible to use what I believe is called an Easy Out?
That's a tapered tapping die with a left-hand thread.
 

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