Snapped Bolt Head Off

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Aug 14, 2009 | 01:50 PM

73cntry

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Snapped Bolt Head Off

I had a great idea of changing my rear diff fluids and all went well after draining it, putting the small amount of RTV on the cover putting the bolts on. Waited about an hour n half to let the RTV set up a little then went back out to check the bolts and snapped one off at the upper corner on the pass side.
Would it be advisable to take the cover back off or should I drill out the old bolt before taking cover off due to all the metal shavings. Don't want those in the gears.
Any help is appreciated.

Aug 14, 2009 | 02:12 PM

CampSpringsJohn

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From: Melbourne, Ky

I'd drill it out with the shield in place. Will you need a drill with a 90 degree head on it to get to the bolt, or can you get to it with a regular drill?

Aug 14, 2009 | 02:16 PM

73cntry

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Quote:

Originally Posted by CampSpringsJohn

I'd drill it out with the shield in place. Will you need a drill with a 90 degree head on it to get to the bolt, or can you get to it with a regular drill?

Thanks for the quick reply and I was hoping to leave it on since I don't think I should get any metal shavings in the rear with the cover all RTVd up n the bolts tight.

I'll go n give it a try to see what happens. Why is it the easier things seem to give the harder problems at times.

Aug 14, 2009 | 04:58 PM

73cntry

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Got it out first try and since the stealership didn't have any bolts I went to the local hardware and picked up a 5/16 18size x 3/4in grade 8. Put it on and good to go now for the test/leak check drive.

Aug 14, 2009 | 08:35 PM

79f-250custom

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From: Wisconsin

i would just leave the darn thing if its up on top. it should be high enough and the rtv should seal it enough so it souldnt leak. i have a lower bolt broke off on my rear diff and i left it. with no leaks so its up to you.
Mitch

Aug 15, 2009 | 02:45 AM

kawa

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From: Rogue River, OR

It's on jobs like these where left hand twist drills come in handy. Many times the broken piece will start to back out with just the drill bit. Harbor Freight carries some small sets very reasonable.

Rog