so i tried for the first time since i got this bike a month ago to remove the luggage rack thing off the sissy bar that the guy put on before me. Dammit if that moron didnt break off one of the bolts that screws in there. Anyone have any ideas how to remove a bolt from something when the head is busted off? There is not enough left that i can grab with a tool. There are 4 bolts that thread in for the sissy bar adjustment, one of those broke off. I tried to take the whole dam thing off via the hex screws that hold the whole housing on but those are in there so dam tight i can get them off, ive turned them so hard im starting to strip them. any ideas.

 

An "easy-out" tool or bolt extractor should help you. If it looks like they are rusted in, spray the bolts with WD-40 first and let it soak into the threads for 20-30 minutes.

On the other hand, those bolts might have Locktite on them. If so, before using WD-40 as described above, apply heat to the bolts before extracting.

Good luck!

 

Just as thumper said easy out. Just make sure you drill it out with a pilot bit, like 1/16 inch and then the right size bit for the bolt and extractor. If it's too small you'll break the extractor off, too big you may end up getting into the threads and/or the extractor may not work. If you use a penetrating fluid make sure to let it work. A lot of folks will spray the stuff on and instantly start trying to remove it. Let it penetrate like thumper said. Good luck.--Joey

 

Without a visual of the bolt, I'm not sure if this would work, but I have had some sussess with a Dremil tool...cut a slot in the bolt, then get it with a screwdriver. Of course the easy outs usually work great as well.

 

i have a dremel, hmmm good idea there is enough of that bolt sticking out that i could cut a slot in it, man id have to be careful using a dremel in that small a space though, wouldnt want to slip and put a cut in my fender. Good idea though.

 

I advocate all those techniques - at the same time.

Penetrating oil - WD, Liq Wrench, whatever. Let it sit for a while. I apply repeadedly while I'm waiting.

Then either use easy out extractor or slot with dremel. BUT.... heat it up some first. Heat and lubrication works for most.

Last part I'd add is to try tapping the item. I use a small hammer to tap on the wrench or tool I'm using. Seems to work well.