Bolt Extractor

[Mario Turcot]

Last time I use a bolt extractor was in my dad's garage 40ish years ago  [eek]
Was using those extractors

Today one of my chair brace came loose because a bolt "exploded"  [scared] Like my garage dad is no more near, I have to look for an extractor. Since it's something that do not happen on a regular basis, I don't want to spend much on it. What is your recommendation on a small set?

There is several different options, like left hand drill bits with extractors. The bolt I have to remove is about 1/4", is that the best option.

Thanks!

 

[Cheese]

I've always used these Mario. They work well as long as the bolt isn't rusted in place.

[attachimg=1]

 

[RKA]

I would try a left hand drill bit first.  If there is little tension on the threads and they are clean, you may find it relieves any tension left as you drill into the center of the bolt and it starts to back out with only the drill bit.  If you're not using these often, Harbor Freight, Princess Auto or any auto parts store should carry a set of left hand drill bits

If you have to put an extractor in it, I like the style you pictured more than the ones Cheese pictured.  The problem with extractors is they wedge themselves in place and slightly expand the bolt adding tension, which can make it more difficult to remove a stuck bolt.  Maybe not an issue in your case, but on a car (typically where I'll use it) where the threads have some corrosion and grime, it's enough to add to my problems.  And of course, as you twist you run the risk of breaking the extractor and making the job even more difficult.  So I don't resort to these unless I'm out of options. 

 

[Alanbach]

I use these for chair and table repair in wood. The set is under $15 at Home Depot. They are sort of a combination of two of the methods described by other in this thread. There is a small left handed bit on one end and then you flip it around and use the other end to extract. They work great in woodworking applications. I doubt they are tough enough for heavy duty auto repair applications.