I recently got some used beds for my kids, but I've run into a problem: the Allen head screws are stripped and the angles are a bit awkward to work with. Does anyone have any tips or tricks for removing them? Thanks in advance!
6 Answers
If you've got locking vice grip pliers handy and the screw head isn't sunk too deep, you can lock them on the head of the bolt and then back it out one turn at a time. I had to do this recently when my daughter 'helped' assemble some patio furniture!
In cases like these, I usually reach for a Torx bit that’s just slightly bigger than the stripped hole and hammer it in. It’ll help cut into the shape and then you can use it to remove the screw. If that doesn’t work, a Torx bit that’s roughly the same size might also do the trick!
You might also want to switch to a T-bar or low-profile ratcheting Allen tool, as they can provide a better grip. I've had success with painter's tape wrapped around the tool, jammed into the hole. It can help secure it in there a bit more.
If the screws aren't totally rounded out, try putting a piece of paper or a rag over the screw and then carefully use the Allen key to work it out. It works more often than you'd think! If that fails, consider using a left-hand threaded screw or vice grips for more grip.
One trick is to use a rubber band in the stripped hole to give it some extra grip. Just apply some pressure slowly with the drill or Allen key. If that doesn't do the job, you might want to look into a screw extractor kit. They’re pretty affordable — you can find one online or at a hardware store for about $10.
Great idea! I’ll definitely give the paper trick a shot.