Torx screw won't come out

Lynne_H

Hello,

I'm a DIY novice: recently bought an electric screwdriver and managed to remove many torx T30 screws from some shelving I'm trying to remove from garage. However, about 5 of the torx screws just won't come out - the electric screwdriver just spins round when inserted. I think what I need is a screw extractor but can't find any info telling me exactly what to do. Do I need a cordless drill and the extractor? Do I need a separate drill bit to drill into the torx screw before extracting?

Any help much appreciated!

Lynne

Jackmydad

It's unlikely that you need a screw extractor. Make sure the torx bit you have isn't worn or bad quality. Then see if you have a straight screwdriver bit, or a hex bit that will jam into the torx recess. if still no good, try pliers of mole grips on the screw. If none of those work, then either cut a slot in the head with a hacksaw or dremel to take a slotted bit, or drill the head off the screw.

AndyMc.....

Jackmydad wrote: »

It's unlikely that you need a screw extractor. Make sure the torx bit you have isn't worn or bad quality. Then see if you have a straight screwdriver bit, or a hex bit that will jam into the torx recess. if still no good, try pliers of mole grips on the screw. If none of those work, then either cut a slot in the head with a hacksaw or dremel to take a slotted bit, or drill the head off the screw.

Or it the screw is just spinning apply some pressure to the threaded end.

Le_Kirk

If you do need a screw extractor (assuming you try the suggestions posted and they don't help you) you will need to be able to drill a hole in the end of the Torx screw and then screw in the screw extractor, which have a left hand thread, so you screw it in anti-clockwise until it is tight and then it starts (with a following wind) to remove the offending screw.

maisie_cat

Are you sure that the bit isn't spinning because you are using the wrong speed and not applying enough pressure? You will need torque rather than speed (on my makita setting 2 is speed and 1 is torque)

Norman_Castle

Lynne_H wrote: »

However, about 5 of the torx screws just won't come out - the electric screwdriver just spins round when inserted.

Does the screw spin but not come out or does the screw remain stationary and the bit spins round?