3 Easy Steps to Use an Easy Out | joanieclothing.com

Encountering a broken bolt or screw can be a frustrating experience, especially when conventional tools seem ineffective. However, there’s a specialized tool that can come to your rescue in such situations: the Easy Out. This ingenious device is designed to extract damaged or stubborn fasteners from various materials, making it an invaluable asset for any toolbox. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a do-it-yourselfer, understanding how to use an Easy Out will empower you to tackle these challenging repairs with confidence and precision.

Before embarking on your extraction mission, it’s crucial to select the appropriate size Easy Out for the damaged fastener. The size of the tool should slightly exceed the diameter of the fastener to ensure a secure grip. Once you have the correct Easy Out, proceed to create a pilot hole in the center of the broken fastener. This hole will serve as a guide for the Easy Out and facilitate the extraction process. To create the pilot hole, use a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the Easy Out.

With the pilot hole in place, insert the Easy Out into the hole and begin to turn it counterclockwise using a wrench or pliers. As you apply pressure, the Easy Out will bite into the damaged fastener and gradually loosen it from its embedded position. It’s important to apply steady pressure and avoid overtightening, as this can damage the Easy Out or the surrounding material. Continue turning the Easy Out counterclockwise until the fastener is completely extracted. Once the fastener is removed, clean the threads using a tap and die set to ensure a smooth and secure fit for future use.

Gathering Your Tools

Before you embark on the mission of removing a broken bolt or screw, it’s crucial to assemble the necessary tools. This will ensure a smooth and efficient process:

Essential Tools:

Tool	Purpose
Easy Out Screw Extractor	The star of the show, designed to grip and extract damaged screws and bolts
Drill	Used to create a pilot hole for the Easy Out, allowing it to engage with the broken piece
Drill Bits	Multiple bits of varying sizes are essential for creating holes of the appropriate diameter for different fastener sizes
Hammer	Needed to drive the Easy Out into the pilot hole and secure it for extraction

Recommended Additional Tools:

Tool	Purpose
Penetrating Oil	Helps lubricate the threads and break down corrosion, easing the extraction process
Vice or Clamp	Can be used to hold the workpiece steady during drilling and extraction, providing greater precision and control
Magnifying Glass	Useful for inspecting the damaged fastener and ensuring accurate drilling for the pilot hole

Remember, using high-quality tools will enhance your chances of successful extraction and prevent further damage.

Preparing the Damaged Bolt or Screw

To effectively use an Easy Out, it’s crucial to properly prepare the damaged bolt or screw. This involves several steps to ensure a successful extraction.

Step 1: Clear the Area

Start by clearing the area around the bolt or screw. Use a wire brush or compressed air to remove any debris or dirt that might hinder access. This will provide a clean work surface and improve visibility.

Step 2: Select the Right Easy Out

Choose an Easy Out that is slightly smaller than the damaged fastener. This is because the Easy Out will create a snug fit within the bolt or screw threads, ensuring maximum grip and extraction power. Refer to the table below for guidance on selecting the correct Easy Out size:

Bolt or Screw Size	Easy Out Size
#6 – #10	1/16 inch
1/4 inch – 5/16 inch	3/32 inch
3/8 inch – 7/16 inch	1/8 inch
1/2 inch – 9/16 inch	5/32 inch

Step 3: Center the Easy Out

Carefully align the Easy Out in the center of the damaged bolt or screw. This is essential to ensure a straight and effective extraction. Use a punch to gently tap the Easy Out into place to avoid slippage.

Inserting the Easy Out

Inserting an Easy Out is a crucial step in removing broken bolts or screws. Here’s a detailed guide on how to do it:

Select the Correct Size: Choose an Easy Out that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the broken bolt or screw. This ensures a snug fit and prevents the Easy Out from slipping.
Drill a Pilot Hole: Using a drill bit slightly smaller than the outer diameter of the Easy Out, carefully drill a pilot hole into the center of the broken bolt or screw. Drill to a depth equal to the length of the Easy Out.

Tap the Easy Out: Use a hammer to gently tap the Easy Out into the pilot hole. Avoid using excessive force, as this can damage the Easy Out or the surrounding material. Using a tapping tool can provide more precise control and minimize the risk of damage.

Tapping Tool	Benefits
Adjustable Tapping Wrench	Precisely controls the tapping force, reducing the risk of breakage
Sliding Hammer	Delivers a controlled impact force, ideal for tapping stubborn bolts or screws
Speed Handle Tap Wrench	Provides faster tapping, especially suitable for high-volume applications

Check the Fit: Once the Easy Out is fully inserted, check the fit by gently trying to turn it. It should fit snugly and not slip.

Extracting the Broken Bolt or Screw

Once the broken bolt or screw is properly seated in the extractor, it’s time to remove it. Be sure to wear safety glasses and gloves before you begin.

Center the extractor in the hole: Use a hammer or a large adjustable wrench to tap the extractor gently into the broken bolt or screw. Tap it just enough so that the extractor is firmly seated in the hole and won’t slip out when you turn it.
Turn the extractor counterclockwise: Use a wrench to turn the extractor counterclockwise. apply steady pressure and turn slowly. avoid using excessive force, as this could break the extractor or damage the threads in the hole.
Lubricate the extractor: If the extractor is difficult to turn, you can try lubricating it with a penetrating oil, such as WD-40. Apply the lubricant to the threads of the extractor and let it sit for a few minutes before trying to turn it again.

Reverse the rotation: If the extractor is still stuck, you can try reversing the direction of rotation. Turn the extractor clockwise for a few turns, then switch back to counterclockwise. This can help to loosen the bolt or screw and make it easier to remove.

Refer to the table below for more tips on extracting a broken bolt or screw


Tip	Description
Use a sharp extractor	a sharp extractor will be more likely to bite into the broken bolt or screw and remove it
Use the correct size extractor	An extractor that is too small will not be able to grip the broken bolt or screw properly, while an extractor that is too large could damage the hole
Apply heat	Applying heat to the broken bolt or screw can help to loosen it and make it easier to remove
Drill out the broken bolt or screw	If all else fails, you can try drilling out the broken bolt or screw. This is a more difficult option, but it may be necessary if the bolt or screw is badly damaged

Using an Electric Drill for Extraction

An electric drill can provide the extra torque necessary to remove stubborn screws. Follow these steps for efficient screw extraction using an electric drill:

1. Reverse the Drill Direction

Set the drill to reverse mode, ensuring it rotates counterclockwise. This direction helps loosen the screw’s grip on the material.

2. Choose the Right Bit

Select a high-quality screw extractor bit that matches the size of the screw head. A slightly smaller bit can dig into the screw’s threads more effectively.

3. Position the Bit

Place the extractor bit securely on the screw head, making sure it sits properly within the screw’s threads. Avoid tilting or misaligning the bit.

4. Apply Steady Pressure

Start drilling at a slow speed with firm but controlled pressure. Slowly increase the speed as the extractor bit digs into the screw’s threads.

5. Gradually Remove the Screw

Drill the screw head slightly deeper with each attempt while applying firm pressure. As the screw loosens, carefully pull it out with pliers or vice grips. If the screw remains stuck, increase the drilling depth and pressure gradually until it comes loose.

Depth	Pressure
Shallow	Moderate
Medium	Strong
Deep	Very Strong

Note: Avoid excessive drilling force, as this can damage the screw or surrounding material.

Using a T-Handle for Extraction

A T-handle is an essential tool for extracting broken bolts, screws, and other hardware. Here’s a detailed guide on how to use a T-handle for extraction:

1. Preparation

Before starting, ensure you have the proper size T-handle for the broken hardware. Clean the work area and wear appropriate safety gear, such as gloves and safety glasses.

2. Centering the Drill Bit

Use a center punch to mark the center of the broken hardware. Drill a pilot hole into the center using a drill bit slightly smaller than the extractor size.

3. Inserting the Extractor

Insert the extractor into the pilot hole and align the flutes with the damaged hardware. Screw the extractor into the hardware by using the T-handle.

4. Applying Pressure

Apply steady downward pressure on the T-handle to engage the extractor’s reverse threads. Slowly turn the T-handle counterclockwise to extract the broken hardware.

5. Using Heat (Optional)

If the broken hardware is particularly stubborn, apply heat to expand the metal around the extractor. This can help loosen the bond and make extraction easier.

6. Breaking the Bond

When extracting longer broken hardware, you may need to break the bond at different intervals. To do this:

Steps	Explanation
Extract partially	Turn the T-handle counterclockwise until the broken hardware loosens slightly.
Tighten clockwise	Without removing the extractor, turn the T-handle clockwise for a few turns to break the bond.
Continue counterclockwise	Turn the T-handle counterclockwise again to continue extracting the hardware.

Repeat these steps until the broken hardware is completely extracted.

Safety Precautions

Before handling an easy out, ensure proper safety measures are implemented to minimize risks and ensure personal protection.

1. Wear Eye Protection

Always don protective eyewear to shield your eyes from flying debris and broken metal fragments that may occur during the process.

2. Use Gloves

Wear gloves to protect your hands from sharp metal edges and hot surfaces, preventing cuts or burns.

3. Secure the Workpiece

Clamp the workpiece firmly in a vise or hold it securely to prevent it from moving unexpectedly and causing injury.

4. Check the Easy Out Size

Select the correct easy out size for the damaged bolt or screw to ensure effective extraction without further damage.

5. Drill a Pilot Hole

Drill a pilot hole into the center of the damaged screw or bolt to guide the easy out and minimize slippage.

6. Lubricate the Easy Out

Apply a lubricating oil or spray to the easy out threads and surfaces to minimize friction and enhance gripping ability.

7. Extraction Procedure

Align the Easy Out: Align the easy out with the pilot hole and ensure it engages with the damaged bolt or screw.
Tighten the Chuck: Securely tighten the chuck of the drill to hold the easy out firmly in place.
Reverse Rotation: Set the drill to reverse rotation and gradually apply pressure to remove the damaged bolt or screw.
Lubricate and Repeat: Periodically lubricate the easy out and repeat the reverse rotation process until the damaged screw or bolt is fully extracted.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Below you will find some common issues that may arise while using an easy out. These issues can be resolved by following the steps mentioned.

Easy Out is Slipping

1. The hole may be too large for the easy out. Try using a smaller easy out or a larger screw.
2. The easy out may not be gripping the screw properly. Make sure the easy out is the correct size for the screw and that it is properly seated in the hole.

Easy Out Is Breaking

1. The easy out may be too small for the screw. Try using a larger easy out.
2. The easy out may be made of a weak material. Try using an easy out made of a stronger material, such as hardened steel.
3. The easy out may not be properly hardened. Try annealing the easy out by heating it to a dull red and then quenching it in oil.
4. The easy out may be overtightened. Do not overtighten the easy out, as this can cause it to break.

Screw is Not Moving

1. The screw may be rusted or seized. Try applying a penetrating oil to the screw and letting it sit for a while.
2. The easy out may not be gripping the screw properly. Make sure the easy out is the correct size for the screw and that it is properly seated in the hole.
3. The easy out may be overtightened. Do not overtighten the easy out, as this can cause it to break.
4. The screw may be too large for the easy out. Try using a larger easy out.

Easy Out is Stuck

1. The easy out may be rusted or seized. Try applying a penetrating oil to the easy out and letting it sit for a while.
2. The screw may be too large for the easy out. Try using a larger easy out.
3. The hole may be too small for the easy out. Try using a smaller easy out or a larger screw.

Easy Out Is Not Working

1. The easy out may be the wrong size for the screw. Make sure the easy out is the correct size for the screw.
2. The easy out may not be properly hardened. Try annealing the easy out by heating it to a dull red and then quenching it in oil.
3. The easy out may be overtightened. Do not overtighten the easy out, as this can cause it to break.
4. The screw may be too large for the easy out. Try using a larger easy out.
5. The hole may be too small for the easy out. Try using a smaller easy out or a larger screw.
6. The screw may be rusted or seized. Try applying a penetrating oil to the screw and letting it sit for a while.
7. The screw may be made of a hard material. Try using an easy out made of a stronger material, such as hardened steel.
8. The easy out may be damaged. Inspect the easy out for any damage, such as cracks or bends. If the easy out is damaged, it may not be able to grip the screw properly and may need to be replaced.

Tips for Success

Here are some tips to help you use an Easy Out successfully:

1. Use the Proper Size Easy Out

The Easy Out should be slightly larger than the stripped screw, but not so large that it damages the threads in the hole.

2. Drill a Pilot Hole

Drilling a small pilot hole in the center of the stripped screw helps to guide the Easy Out and prevent it from slipping.

3. Use Cutting Fluid

Applying cutting fluid to the Easy Out and screw helps to reduce friction and makes it easier to remove the screw.

4. Tap the Easy Out In

Using a hammer, lightly tap the Easy Out into the pilot hole until it is flush with the surface of the screw.

5. Turn the Easy Out Counterclockwise

Using a wrench or pliers, turn the Easy Out counterclockwise to loosen the screw.

6. Remove the Screw

Once the screw is loose, remove it by hand or with a screwdriver.

7. Clean the Threads

After removing the screw, use a tap to clean the threads in the hole.

8. Lubricate the Threads

Apply a small amount of lubricant to the threads to prevent future stripping.

9. Additional Tips for Success

Tip	Description
Use a sharp Easy Out.	A dull Easy Out can slip and damage the screw or the hole.
Apply steady pressure.	Jerking or twisting the Easy Out can break it or damage the screw.
Be patient.	Removing a stripped screw can take time and effort.

Maintaining Your Easy Out

To ensure the longevity and effectiveness of your easy out, it’s crucial to maintain it properly. Here are some key steps:

1. Clean the Easy Out: After each use, thoroughly clean the easy out using a wire brush or compressed air to remove any debris or metal shavings.
2. Sharpen the Tip: Over time, the tip of the easy out may become dull. Sharpen it using a grinding wheel or sharpening stone to restore its cutting edge.
3. Lubricate the Threads: Apply a small amount of penetrating oil or grease to the threads of the easy out to minimize friction and prevent galling.
4. Use the Correct Size: Always select an easy out that is slightly smaller than the diameter of the fastener you’re removing. This ensures a tight fit and prevents the easy out from slipping.
5. Drill a Pilot Hole: Before inserting the easy out, drill a small pilot hole into the center of the broken fastener. This provides a guide for the easy out and helps prevent it from wandering.
6. Insert the Easy Out: Tap the easy out gently into the pilot hole using a hammer. Make sure it is seated securely before applying any torque.
7. Apply Torque: Using a wrench or socket, apply clockwise torque to the easy out. Gradually increase the torque until the fastener begins to move.
8. Check the Torque: If the torque becomes excessive or the easy out starts to slip, stop and check the condition of the fastener and the easy out. Adjustments may be necessary.
9. Extract the Fastener: Once the fastener is loose, carefully extract it from the hole using a pair of pliers or a small hook.
10. Inspect the Easy Out: After removing the fastener, inspect the easy out for any signs of damage or wear. If the teeth are damaged or the threads are stripped, the easy out should be replaced.

Maintenance Aspect	Importance
Cleaning	Prevents debris buildup, ensuring smooth operation.
Sharpening	Restores cutting edge for effective extraction.
Lubrication	Reduces friction, preventing galling and premature wear.
Correct Size Selection	Ensures tight fit and prevents slipping.
Pilot Hole Drilling	Guides easy out, preventing wandering and ensuring alignment.
Torque Monitoring	Prevents over-tightening and damage to the easy out or fastener.
Damage Inspection	Detects wear or damage, allowing for timely replacement.

How to Use an Easy Out

An Easy Out is a tool used to remove broken screws, bolts, and studs. It is a simple tool to use, but there are a few things you need to know to use it correctly.

Here are the steps on how to use an Easy Out:

Select the correct size Easy Out for the broken screw, bolt, or stud.
Drill a pilot hole into the center of the broken screw, bolt, or stud. The pilot hole should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the Easy Out.
Insert the Easy Out into the pilot hole and turn it counterclockwise to engage the threads of the broken screw, bolt, or stud.
Once the Easy Out is engaged, apply pressure to the tool and turn it counterclockwise to remove the broken screw, bolt, or stud.

Here are some tips for using an Easy Out:

Use a sharp drill bit to create the pilot hole.
Apply a small amount of cutting oil to the Easy Out before inserting it into the pilot hole.
Turn the Easy Out slowly and carefully to avoid breaking the tool.
If the Easy Out becomes stuck, do not force it. Instead, remove the tool and try again.