Off topic- how do drill out a broken tap?

[Steve2ManyBoats]

I had to drill and tap threads for a larger hole in the seat frame of my F150 to accommodate an upgraded recline adjuster. Just about 75% of the way through the job, the tap broke at the surface of a captive nut (1/4 in. thick).

Can't back it out. Tried drilling the tap with cobalt and Ti coated bits - no dice. Can't even dent the thing.

Now I've got a truck with no driver's seat.

Any ideas?

Thanks...Steve2ManyBoats.

[Plan-b]

Take a center punch and put it into one of the flutes of the tap on an angle… strike the punch to rotate the tap CCW.

[wrechin2]

I ususaly try to shatter them. I have taken bolts before and grind a cross in them to fit over the tap and use a wrench to turn them out. They make tools that look silimar to this. Hope this helps.:thumbsup:

[Plan-b]

Or you can weld a nut onto it...

[flabum1017]

I have used these http://www.waltontools.com/products/extractr.htm with great success. It's either that or a punch and a heavy hammer to try and drive it out.

[fatjohnson73]

got sum pics?:cheers:

[1BadAction]

punch/hammer and shatter it is about the only way I can ever seem to get them out... other than a plasma cutter :eek:

[Forkin' Crazy]

Or you can weld a nut onto it...


That works good. Probably be easier to use a mig or tig. They make extracters for that too.

[ssent]

Take three smaller screwdrivers that will fit down the flutes, make sure the screw drivers are Not round shanks (craftmans are square shank) take some visegrips and try twisting it out. You'll have to push down hard on the handles to keep them in the hole. If that doesn't work buy an extracter like flabum posted.

[Hottrucks]

can you go under the truck and grab it with vise grips from the bottom and get it turned back up on top then grab it there??

[pyro]

can you go under the truck and grab it with vise grips from the bottom and get it turned back up on top then grab it there??

Good idea, but...

If it was already that far through, it wouldn't likely be stuck. :D

[Ranger976]

I have used these http://www.waltontools.com/products/extractr.htm with great success. It's either that or a punch and a heavy hammer to try and drive it out.

Tap Extractors.....Used these many a time, various sizes.... works like a dream...Good Luck

[Forkin' Crazy]

Take three smaller screwdrivers that will fit down the flutes, make sure the screw drivers are Not round shanks (craftmans are square shank) take some visegrips and try twisting it out. You'll have to push down hard on the handles to keep them in the hole. If that doesn't work buy an extracter like flabum posted.


I thought you didn't give advice? http://i120.photobucket.com/albums/o168/forkincrazy/smilies/tongue141.gif

[oldskier]

:iagree:tap extractors! Yes! Got mine from McMaster-Carr. Get one, they WORK! AND leave the threads intact.:)

[jerry1865]

those are good methods in a pinch, but the best way is to get a solid carbide drill and drill out the center. run the carb ide drill at a fairly low rpm and not too much pressure. with a dab of lube ...and you are guaranteed to come out best.
(machinist by trade)

[MIJI]

I've also had great success with tap extractors.