Removing Stripped Cap Heads

[compynei]

Hi all,

We have some light fittings recessed into the patio / drive.

They take GU10 LED lamps. The front is held on with 3mm cap head screws.
Two of the three screws in this one have failed and I've managed to strip them.

Any suggestions on getting them out? I looked at a screw removal tool but they all seem to be too big.

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Thanks

Neil

 

[alan333]

Perhaps wait for a better answer but you could try using something like a screwdriver and hammer to knock the screw anti clockwise.

 

[AndyPRK]

either

a) Hammer a bigger BIT into the middle so it will grip and then turn,
b) chissel some grooves either side, so a large flat bladded screw driver will unscrew it.
c) drill the head off

 

[PrenticeBoyofDerry]

If you cannot loosen them using screwdriver bit and small spanner ratchet, then once head protruding enough to turn with grips.
Then an extractor bit will help, there are plenty of sets of differing sizes available.

 

[Taylortwocities]

Squirt in WD40, then wait a day before trying again.

 

[SimonH2]

Better to use an easing/penetrating fluid - WD40 isn't actually all that good in that respect compared to others.

 

[compynei]

Just as an update, finally got round to doing this job.

I managed to get all the stripped heads out by forcing in the square nut of an Irwin screwdriver. Don't know why I didn't use my trusty Irwin before - it's never let me down yet!

One was too far gone though and after trying various things I ended up shelling out £14 for this:
http://www.screwfix.com/p/trend-pro-grabit-screw-and-bolt-remover-2-pieces/21391

Worked an absolute charm after the £4 ones didn't touch it and it was straight out. Beautiful.

Put some grease on the new cap heads too so I can hopefully avoid this in the future.

Thanks for the help all

 

[JohnD]

by cap-head, do you mean Allen key, spline or similar?

Are they stainless, and do they screw into stainless?