Spiral screw extractors are one of the most valuable tools that you can have in your toolkit. They are primarily used to remove screws or bolts that have become damaged or stuck. They come in various sizes to fit different screws and bolts. Here is a brief guide on how to use a spiral screw extractor.
Size of Spiral Screw Extractor
It is crucial to choose the right size drill bit and screw extractor to avoid damaging your project. Using the wrong size drill bit can damage components around the project and make it take longer to remove the screw or bolt.
The chart below shows the spiral screw extractor & Drill sizes for screws and bolts.
| Screws and Bolts Size | Use Drill Bit | Extractor Size |
|---|---|---|
| 3/32” – 5/32”, 2.5 mm – 4 mm, No. 3 – No. 6 | 5/64” | #1 |
| 5/32” – 7/32”, 4 mm – 6 mm, No. 6 – No. 12 | 7/64” | #2 |
| 7/32” – 9/32”, 6 mm – 8 mm, No. 14 | 5/32” | #3 |
| 9/32” – 3/8”, 8 mm – 10 mm, 1/8” NPT, 1/8” BSP | 1/4” | #4 |
| 3/8” – 5/8”, 10 mm – 16 mm, 1/4” NPT, 1/4” BSP | 19/64” | #5 |
| 5/8” – 7/8”, 16 mm – 22 mm, 3/8” NPT, 3/8” BSP | 13/32” | #6 |
| 7/8” – 1-1/8”, 22 mm – 27 mm, 1/2” NPT, 1/2” BSP | 17/32” | #7 |
| 1-1/8” – 1-3/8”, 27 mm – 36 mm, 3/4” NPT, 3/4” BSP | 13/16” | #8 |
| 1-3/8” – 2”, 36 mm – 52 mm, 1” NPT, 1” BSP | 1-1/16” | #9 |
| 2-1/8” – 2-1/2”, 52 mm – 68 mm, 1-1/4” NPT, 1-1/4” BSP | 1-5/16” | #10 |
Source: https://www.irwin.com/uploads/documents/18_screw_extractor_selection_guide.pdf
How to Use a Spiral Screw Extractor?
Using a spiral screw extractor can be tricky if you don’t know how to do it correctly. Many claims that this extractor is more effective than other extractors. So, let’s look for the guide.
A few more tools, whatever will be needed –
- WD-40
- Center punch
- Drill (with left-handed drill bit)
- hammer
- wrench or pliers
Step 1 – Use WD-40
WD-40 is a highly effective and widely used product. If screws or bolts become stuck due to rust, spraying WD-40 onto them might help loosen the rust and make it easier to remove. Allow the WD-40 a few minutes to work its magic before attempting to unscrew the rusty fasteners.
Step 2 – Get Help With Center Punch
When trying to create a hole in a screw or bolt, using a drill machine on a flat surface may not be effective. A center punch should be used to ensure an accurate hole is created. Place the point of the punch in the center of the screw or bolt and tap it with a hammer to create a dent. This dent then guides the drill bit, allowing precise holes to be drilled.
Step 3 – Start Drilling
Using a left-handed drill bit, begin drilling into the dent created with the center punch. Continue drilling until the bit is approximately 1/4 of an inch above the screw or bolt. If the screw or bolt is oversized, additional drilling may be necessary.
Step 4 – Now is the Time for the Spiral Screw Extractor
Insert the spiral screw extractor into your drill and rotate it counterclockwise. Move slowly and cautiously to avoid damaging the screws or bolts. If the spiral screw extractor is too big or small, it won’t work correctly. Ensure it is the appropriate size for the screw or bolt you need to remove. (Spiral screw extractor sizes information table mentioned above)
Step 5 – Grab a Wrench or Pliers
Attach the spiral screw extractor to the screw, then use a wrench or pliers to turn it clockwise until the screw is loosened.
Safety & Other Tips
- Always wear safety goggles & gloves when using a power drill.
- If the screw is still stuck, use a heat gun to loosen it.
- Never use a spiral screw extractor on a screw that is not stuck, as this can damage the screw and the surrounding materials.
- Always use a spiral screw extractor that is the correct size for the screw or bolt you are trying to remove.
The Suggestion of Some Spiral Screw Extractor Sets
Below, I am providing a list of well-known “spiral screw extractor set brands.”
IRWIN 53535
Introducing the Irwin Spiral Screw Extractor, the perfect tool for quickly removing broken studs, bolts, socket screws, and fittings.
This extractor is designed with an aggressive left-hand spiral design and a socket cap head style, making it easy to use in a power drill or manually with Irwin’s T-Handle. With a famous brand name you can trust, the Irwin Spiral Screw Extractor is the perfect choice for all your extraction needs.
IVY Classic 01360
The IVY Classic 01360 Spiral Screw Extractor Set is the perfect tool for removing screws quickly and easily. Made from high-quality alloy steel; these extractors feature a left-hand thread style and a tapered spiral flute that firmly grips the screw.
This set is strong, durable, and long-lasting, with a polished body and sandblasted flute for added rust resistance. Plus, it comes at an affordable price, making it the perfect choice for any DIY project.
GEARWRENCH 2419D
This set is made from good-quality alloy steel and is designed to provide excellent performance even in the most challenging situations. Its affordable price makes it the perfect choice for DIYers and professionals alike. The set comes with a hammer drill-style extractor that makes it easy to remove screws quickly and easily.
BOSCH BSPE5S
It is the perfect tool kit for any professional. It can easily be Crafted from heat-treated carbon steel, and these left-hand flutes are designed to provide superior strength and durability while remaining rust and tarnish-resistant.
With these extractors, you can easily remove broken fasteners from tight spaces. However, due to the rigid material, be sure to use it cautiously when applying pressure to avoid breakage.
CRAFTSMAN CMMT14108
Its left-hand spiral design allows for accessible gripping and maximum torque to remove even the most stuck fasteners. With its premium look and feel, this set is an ideal choice for use. The low price makes it an excellent value for your money. Unfortunately, some users have reported that the extractor tips can be brittle and break easily, so be careful when using them.
Conclusion
Spiral Screw Extractors are great tools to have in your toolkit. You can quickly and safely remove screws and bolts with the right tools and safety precautions! So, what are you waiting for? Get your spiral screw extractor set today and start your project!
If you found this guide helpful, share it with your friends and family who may need help removing screws and bolts. Also, let us know in the comments below which spiral screw extractor set you chose and what projects you used it for.
Read Also – Spiral Vs Straight Flute Extractor