Need help finding a specific tool

mbogosia · #1 (**permalink**) 06-27-2009, 04:30 PM

My wife has an Acura. The rotors have two small philips head screws that you have to loosen to take them off. The problem is they are tight and they strip very easily. Someone told me there is a tool that has a philips head and you can hit the end of it with a hammer. The hit will push the screwdriver in and counter clockwise at the same time. Anyone know what this is called? Can I get one at Harbor freight?

horsepuller · #2 (**permalink**) 06-27-2009, 05:51 PM

Yes, it's called an impact driver. I bought one a long time ago to work on my Suzuki motorcycle. It works exactly as you described and they are reversable. They come with both phillips and slotted head bits. I still use it today as a last resort for stubborn phillips screws that are soft and deform easily. IMO, everyone should have one in their toolbox. I would be very surprised if HF did NOT have one.

ford2go · #3 (**permalink**) 06-28-2009, 01:18 AM

Well, I am a bit surprised. I though that impact drivers might be a little too big for what you wanted to do.

But, I looked at the Sears website, and the first reviewer mentioned using it to replace the rotors on a Mazda. I'm guessing that the screws are similar.

HF does sell one for a lot less ( 5 bucks vs 25), but I'd look it over carefully. Half of the trick on Phillips heads is having a bit that's good and hard and fits well.

BTW not too many places do have them anymore. I saw a lot of powered impact drivers -- basically drills with some kinf of impact mechanism.

I used to use mine a lot when I had motorcycles. Haven't really needed it since.

rebocardo · #4 (**permalink**) 06-28-2009, 02:36 AM

The reason they strip is because they are usually a posi-drive screw. I bought a set of 3/8 screw bits (#1, #2, #3, posi, etc.) mostly for door hinges and rotors. Think I have a mixture of Sears and Snap-On.

Just spray some PB Blaster on the screw, tap the socket with a hammer, insert the ratchet, press down while turning. When replacing the screw, use some anti-seize (grey is okay - copper is better).

mbogosia · #5 (**permalink**) 06-28-2009, 08:47 AM

Thanks guys. Impact driver is what I was looking for. This tool is basically a must have for changing out Honda and Acura Rotors. I'm sure many can do without it, but it is supposed to be a huge help.

mitchntx · #6 (**permalink**) 06-28-2009, 08:19 PM

Those screws are installed to keep the rotor on the car during assembly. They were on my daughters Civic. American made cars used those pesky star washer thnings ...

Drill out the head and don't worry about it.