What is a Screw Extractor and When Should You Use One?

A screw extractor, also known as an easy out, is a specialty tool used to remove damaged or stuck screws. It works by digging into the stripped screw head and gripping it from the inside so you can unscrew it.

You should use a screw extractor when:

• A screw head is stripped, rounded off, or otherwise damaged. Regular drivers won’t grip it anymore.
• A screw is stuck firmly in place and won’t budge with a regular screwdriver. This usually happens due to corrosion or over-tightening.
• You need to extract a broken screw shaft or bolt that has sheared off below the surface.

Choosing the Right Screw Extractor

Screw extractors come in three main types:

Spiral Flute Extractors

These have a tapered end that spirals into the screw. They work for most screw types and sizes.

Straight Flute Extractors

Designed for small screws in tight spaces. The straight flutes bore deep into stuck screws.

Left-Hand Drill Bit Extractors

These extractors have left-hand cutting edges to bite into and unscrew stuck screws. Useful for screws with broken heads.

Make sure to match your extractor type and size to the damaged screw. Having multiple sizes on hand is recommended.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to safely and effectively use a screw extractor:

Step 1: Remove Any Obstructions

Clear any blocked access to the damaged screw with a hammer or drill. You need a clear path to insert the extractor.

Step 2: Create a Pilot Hole

Use a drill bit that’s slightly smaller than the outside diameter of the extractor’s threads. Drill into the center of the screw head to create a pilot hole. Drill just deep enough for the extractor to gain purchase.

Step 3: Select Your Extractor

Choose an extractor the same diameter or slightly larger than the screw you’re removing. Larger ones have more gripping power. Don’t use an undersized extractor.

Step 4: Lubricate the Extractor

Lubricating helps reduce friction and tapping torque as you thread in the extractor. Use penetrating oil or WD-40.

Step 5: Insert the Extractor

Place the extractor into the pilot hole and turn clockwise with steady pressure. Let the extractor bite into the metal screw threads.

Step 6: Loosen the Screw

Once it grips the screw, start turning counterclockwise to loosen and back out the stuck screw. Apply firm pressure but don’t over-torque.

Step 7: Remove the Screw

Keep turning until the damaged screw is completely extracted. Discard the spent screw. You may need pliers to unthread the extractor.

Troubleshooting Tips

• If the extractor keeps slipping, try re-drilling the pilot hole for a better fit.
• For stubborn screws, apply penetrating oil or heat the area with a hairdryer to help loosen the threads.
• If you strip or break an extractor, use an easy-out remover tool to extract it before starting over.
• Switch to a larger-sized extractor if you need more gripping power on the screw.

Alternative Methods

If you don’t have a screw extractor, try these methods:

• Use a manual impact driver screwdriver placed in the head cavity and struck with a hammer to turn the screw.
• Superglue or epoxy a same-sized driver bit into the damaged screw head and let it set before turning.
• As a last resort, drill out the entire screw if feasible for your application.

Preventing Stuck Screws

To avoid stuck screws in the future:

• Lubricate screws before driving them in, especially in metal.
• Avoid over tightening screws.
• Use the right size screwdriver to avoid stripping.
• Consider using high-quality screws less prone to seizing up or snapping.

With this comprehensive guide, you can now confidently use a screw extractor to remove damaged and stuck screws like a pro. Just take your time, use the right technique, and avoid over-torquing. And you’ll rescue screws in no time while minimizing damage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using Screw Extractors

Extracting stuck screws can be frustrating. Here are answers to some common questions about using screw extractors:

What are some tips for drilling the pilot hole?

• Use a drill bit slightly narrower than the extractor. Too wide of a hole won’t allow it to grip.
• Drill slow with firm pressure. High speed can cause the bit to wander or break.
• Keep the drill as straight as possible to maximize contact with the stuck screw.

How do I know if I’m applying too much force with the extractor?

If you need to apply very heavy gripping pressure or the extractor keeps slipping, it likely needs more grip. Try re-drilling the pilot hole for a tighter fit before re-inserting the extractor.

Why does my extractor keep breaking?

Overtorquing is usually the culprit. Apply steady medium force, letting the extractor do the work. Don’t forcefully overpower it. Choosing an extractor too small for the screw can also lead to breakage.

What type of lubricant works best?

Penetrating oils and sprays like WD-40 work great. They seep into crevices to help break corrosion and loosen threads. Avoid thicker lubes that could clog the extractor.

Can I use an extractor on screws with broken/missing heads?

Yes, you drill directly into the screw shaft rather than the head for purchase in this situation. Center punching first can help guide the bit.

Is using a screw extractor likely to damage the material?

There is always some risk of damage around the extraction site. But using the right sized extractor and proper technique minimizes harm. Slow and steady is key.

My screw extractor is now stuck. What should I do?

Don’t worry, you can remove a stuck extractor using an easy-out tool. Just center punch the flutes and twist out the embedded extractor with the easy-out for a fresh start.

Can I use an extractor on an over-tightened but undamaged screw?

You can try, but a regular driver with proper downward force often works for simply stuck, undamaged screws. Extractors work best when gripping damaged screw heads.

How can I avoid stuck screws in the future?

Always pre-drill holes for screws, lubricate them, use the right size driver, avoid over-tightening, and choose high quality screws less prone to seizing.

Conclusion

Extracting stuck screws doesn’t need to be a struggle with the right screw removal tools and techniques. As this guide covered, the key steps are choosing the appropriate extractor, creating a centered pilot hole, lubricating the extractor, slowly turning it into the screw, and extracting with steady pressure. Following the tips, tricks, and methods outlined will allow you to use a screw extractor like a seasoned pro. With some care and patience, you can rescue that stuck screw and get your project back on track.