There are few things more frustrating than a broken bolt. Whether it’s a result of overtightening or age, dealing with a broken bolt can be a real pain. But there’s no need to call in the professionals – with a little know-how and the right tools, you can remove that broken bolt yourself.
All you need is a tap and die set. A tap and die set is basically two complementary tools used to create screw threads. The tap is used to cut the female thread (the internal thread), while the die is used to cut the male thread (the external thread).
In this case, we’ll be using the tap to remove the broken bolt from its hole.
How To Remove A Broken Screw/Bolt With A Tap And Die Set (Full Tutorial)
- Obtain a tap and die set that is the appropriate size for the broken bolt
- Place the die over the end of the bolt, and lightly tap it with a hammer to start it in place
- Use the wrench that came with the set to turn the die clockwise until it is tight against the bolt
- Continue turning the die until it has cut through the entire length of the bolt
How to Extract a Broken Bolt Without Drilling
If you’re lucky, you can remove a broken bolt without drilling. But if the head of the bolt is stripped or the shaft is snapped, then you’ll need to drill it out. Here’s how to do it:
- Use a center punch to make a dimple in the center of the bolt head. This will prevent your drill bit from slipping.
- Drill a pilot hole into the center of the bolt head with a small drill bit (1/16-inch or smaller). Keep the drill bit perpendicular to the surface and don’t apply too much pressure, or you could break off the tip of the drill bit.
- Slowly increase the size of the drill bit until it’s slightly larger than the diameter of the bolt shaft . Again, keep the drill bit perpendicular to avoid damaging the surrounding area.
- Use an extractor tool to remove the broken bolt . If you don’t have an extractor tool, you can try using a screwdriver or other metal rod that fits snugly into the pilot hole.
- Apply gentle but firm pressure while turning the tool counterclockwise. With luck, this will loosen and remove the broken bolt.
Removing Broken Bolt
If you’re trying to remove a broken bolt, there are a few different techniques you can try. One is to use a drill to create a new hole in the bolt so you can use a extractor tool to remove it. Another is to use a chisel and hammer to break off the head of the bolt, then use a punch and drift pin to drive the rest of the bolt out.
If the bolt is really stuck, you may need to resort to using an oxy-acetylene torch to heat up the area around the bolt and loosen it that way. Whichever method you choose, be careful not to damage the surrounding area while you’re working.
Tap And Die Set How to Use
If you’re looking to do any kind of threading, a tap and die set is an absolute must. But if you’ve never used one before, the prospect of using a tap and die can be daunting. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about how to use a tap and die set, so that you can tackle any threading project with confidence.
The first thing you need to know is what size tap and die set to get. The most important factor here is the diameter of the hole that you need to thread. Once you know the diameter, you can select the appropriate size tap and die for the job.
Once you have your taps and dies, it’s time to get started on your project. If possible, start by drilling a pilot hole with a smaller bit than what your final threaded hole will be. This will make it easier to start your threads without stripping them.
When starting your threads, always go slowly at first until the threads are well-started before cranking up the speed. When cutting new threads with a die, apply plenty of cutting oil or lubricant to both the workpiece and the die itself. This will help prevent damage to the threads as well as make it easier to turn the die.
Again, go slowly at first until the threads are well-started before increasing speed. Assemble your parts using whichever method is appropriate for your application – hand-tightening should suffice for most projects, but if greater torque is required, use a wrench. Be careful, not over-tighten, which could strip out the new threads.
There’s no shame in admitting that using a tap and die set can be confusing at first. But with a little practice, anybody can master this essential tool. With this guide in hand, you’re now ready to take on any threading project with confidence!
How to Use a Tap And Die Set to Rethread
If you need to rethread a pipe or bolt, then you’ll need to use a tap and die set. This can be a tricky process, but with our step-by-step guide, you’ll have no trouble at all. First, you’ll need to determine the size of the thread that you need to cut.
Once you know this, select the appropriate tap and die from your set. If you’re not sure which size to choose, it’s always better to err on the side of caution and go for a slightly larger size. Next, apply some cutting oil to the threads of the tap.
This will help to lubricate the process and prevent any damage to the taps. Then, begin screwing the tap into the workpiece clockwise. Apply moderate pressure as you turn so that the threads are cut evenly.
Once the tap has been screwed in all the way, unscrew it carefully in a counterclockwise direction. Be careful not to cross-thread or strip out the new threads as you remove it.
Bolt Extractor Set
Bolt extractor sets are one of the most versatile and essential tools that you can own. A bolt extractor set contains all the necessary sizes and types of extractors to remove any type of damaged, frozen, or otherwise stuck bolt. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a weekend warrior, having a good bolt extractor set on hand is always a good idea.
Even if you’re not particularly handy, there’s always the possibility that you’ll encounter a situation where you need to remove a stuck bolt – and when that happens, you’ll be glad you have a bolt extractor set!

Credit: www.novick.eu
How Do You Remove a Broken Bolt With a Tap And Die Set?
If you have a broken bolt that needs to be removed, using a tap and die set is one way to do it. First, you’ll need to determine the size of the bolt so you can get the correct tap and die for the job. Once you have the right size, use the tap to thread a new hole into the broken bolt.
Next, screw in the die until it’s snug against the metal. Finally, turn the handle on the die clockwise to remove the broken bolt.
How Do You Get a Bolt Out When the Head Broke Off?
If you have a bolt with a broken head, it can be difficult to remove. Here are some tips on how to remove a bolt with a broken head:
- Use a chisel and hammer to try to break the bolt free. If the head of the bolt is small, you may be able to use a punch instead of a chisel.
- Place the chisel or punch on the side of the bolt head and strike it with the hammer until the head breaks free.
- Once the head of the bolt is broken off, you should be able to unscrew it by hand or with pliers.
- If the bolt is still stuck, try using an impact wrench or drill to loosen it.
- You can also try heating up the bolt with a torch until it expands and then cooling it down with cold water.
How Do You Drill Out a Broken Bolt in an Engine Block?
If you’re lucky, the broken bolt will be sticking out of the engine block far enough that you can use a standard drill bit to remove it. However, if the bolt is flush with the block or only protruding a little bit, you’ll need to use a left-hand drill bit. Left-hand drill bits are designed to spin in the opposite direction of regular drill bits, making them ideal for removing bolts and screws.
To remove a broken bolt using a left-hand drill bit:
- Center the drill bit on the head of the bolt and start drilling. Apply steady pressure as you drill; don’t force it or the bit could break.
- Drill until the head of the bolt is flush with the engine block. Remove any debris from around the hole with a wire brush or compressed air.
How Do You Use a Tap Die Set?
When it comes to working with metal, a tap die set is an essential tool. This handy set includes both taps and dies, which are used to create internal and external threads respectively. In order to use a tap die set, you’ll need a few other tools on hand as well, including a drill, a wrench, and some cutting oil.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to using a tap die set:
- Select the appropriate size tap or die for your project. It’s important to choose the right size so that the threads will be properly sized for whatever you’re screwing them into (or onto).
- Attach the tap or die to the handle. Most sets come with handles that can be attached to either type of tool.
- Place the cutting oil on the end of the tap or die that will be doing the cutting. This helps lubricate the process and prevents damage to the tool (and your workpiece).
- Position your workpiece in the drill press so that the location where you’ll be tapping or drilling is centered under the bit. If you’re working with a small piece, it’s helpful to clamp it down so it doesn’t move around while you’re working.
- Start drilling slowly, then increase speed as needed. For best results when tapping, keep constant pressure on the handle while turning it clockwise until you feel resistance; then back out slightly before continuing.
Conclusion
Using a tap and die set is a great way to remove a broken bolt. With a little patience and the proper tools, you can easily remove a broken bolt from your car or motorcycle. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully and take your time. With a little practice, you’ll be able to remove a broken bolt like a pro!