Removing a broken bolt in an engine block may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, techniques, and knowledge it doesn’t have to be.
The first step is to determine what type of bolt needs to be removed. When you have identified the bolt type, you can move on to the next steps.
If you are dealing with hardened steel bolts, try using a Left-Hand Drill Bit or an EZ-Out Screw Extractor. These tools are designed to remove broken bolts. You will need a drill to use these tools. Carefully drill into the bolt head and use the extractor to back the bolt out.
If the bolt is made from softer materials such as aluminum, brass, or other metals you can use a more traditional approach such as a pair of bolt extractors. Use the extractors to grip the head of the bolt and turn it counter-clockwise to remove it.
Using a center punch and small hammer, you can also try to hammer the broken bolt back up in the reverse direction. If you are successful with this approach, you may be able to use a wrench to remove the bolt.
No matter which technique you choose to use, ensure the bolt is in the counter-clockwise direction to avoid further damage to the engine when extracting the bolt. With the right tools and techniques, any broken bolt can be safely removed.