Removing a Stuck Rusted Screw: Easy Out or Drill?

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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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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.
 
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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.