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How to Properly Remove a Broken Bolt

Oct. 28 2020 Tractor Repair By Team Tractor and Equipment

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It happens to the best of us from time to time.

We tighten and tighten a tractor bolt.  Then we twist it just a bit too much and “SNAP!”

The bolt is now broken.

Why did the bolt break?

If your bolt broke off as you were tightening it, it most likely got hard because of the head binding on the surface --- not because the threads are bad.  This bolt will come out a lot easier because once the head breaks off, the tension is typically off the threads.  This makes it so you can usually screw the bolt out. 

So, what should you do to remove the broken bolt?

How to remove the broken bolt.

Here is a simple-to-follow removal process.

First, if possible, back out the bolt using a set of vice grips.  If there is not enough of the thread sticking out to clamp onto --- grab a small chisel and tap the remaining threads in a counter-clockwise direction.

Perhaps this did not work for you.  Maybe the bolt was too long, and the threads bottomed out.  Or you broke the bolt when loosening it. No worries --- it is just time to get a bit more creative. 

Our next recommendation would be to buy left-handed drill bits that are great for drilling out broken bolts.  Be careful not to damage the threads in the hole.  If this does not work, we can get even more creative. 

If you own a welder, you can find a nut that is the same size as the bolt.  Then weld the nut to the remaining threads.  Let the nut cool completely.  Then try to remove it.

If you still cannot remove the broken bolt, or do not feel comfortable trying to, contact your local dealer or mechanic.    

If you need any further help or have any questions about broken bolts, or anything else, please contact your dealer, local mechanic, or call us at 602-734-9944.  Please ask about our current new and used tractor supply.


Team Tractor and Equipment - #1 Tractor Dealer in Arizona. We sell and service most major brands of tractors including Yanmar, Kubota, John Deere, TYM, Mahindra, Kioti, Case, New Holland, Massey Ferguson, Ford, Deutz, Case IH, Farmall, International Harvester, Branson Tractors, LS, Shibura, Claas Tractor, McCormick Tractors, Valtra, Solis, YTO, Montana, and Nortrac.