139 Views· 20 May 2024
How to remove stripped screws – 7 different ways
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Stripped screws can be a frustrating obstacle in any DIY or repair project. However, with the right techniques and tools, you can remove them with ease. Here are seven effective methods to tackle stripped screws:
### 1. Rubber Band Method
**Materials Needed:**
- Rubber band
- Screwdriver
**Steps:**
1. Place a rubber band over the stripped screw head.
2. Firmly press the screwdriver into the rubber band.
3. Slowly turn the screwdriver. The rubber band provides extra grip, allowing you to turn the screw.
### 2. Screw Extractor Kit
**Materials Needed:**
- Screw extractor kit
- Drill
- Screwdriver
**Steps:**
1. Drill a small hole into the center of the stripped screw using the appropriate drill bit.
2. Insert the extractor bit into the drilled hole.
3. Turn the extractor counterclockwise using a drill or a wrench. The extractor will bite into the screw and allow you to remove it.
### 3. Pliers
**Materials Needed:**
- Locking pliers (Vise-Grip)
**Steps:**
1. Clamp the locking pliers onto the screw head as tightly as possible.
2. Turn the pliers counterclockwise to unscrew the stripped screw. This method works best if the screw head is slightly protruding.
### 4. Hammer and Flathead Screwdriver
**Materials Needed:**
- Hammer
- Flathead screwdriver
**Steps:**
1. Place the flathead screwdriver into the stripped screw head.
2. Gently tap the handle of the screwdriver with a hammer to create a new groove.
3. Once the groove is deep enough, turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to remove the screw.
### 5. Drill and Larger Bit
**Materials Needed:**
- Drill
- Drill bit slightly larger than the screw head
**Steps:**
1. Select a drill bit that is just larger than the stripped screw head.
2. Drill down into the screw head until it is removed.
3. Once the head is drilled off, you can easily pull out the remaining screw shaft with pliers.
### 6. Dremel Tool
**Materials Needed:**
- Dremel tool with a cutting wheel
**Steps:**
1. Use the Dremel tool to cut a new, straight slot into the screw head.
2. Insert a flathead screwdriver into the new slot.
3. Turn the screwdriver counterclockwise to remove the screw.
### 7. Super Glue Method
**Materials Needed:**
- Super glue
- Screwdriver
**Steps:**
1. Apply a small amount of super glue to the stripped screw head.
2. Quickly place the screwdriver into the screw head and hold it in place until the glue sets.
3. Once the glue is set, turn the screwdriver to remove the screw.
Removing stripped screws can be challenging, but with these seven methods, you have a variety of techniques at your disposal. Whether you prefer the simplicity of a rubber band or the precision of a screw extractor kit, you can effectively tackle any stripped screw and continue with your project.
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