So, I was trying to remove screw above/north the map sensor and the screw stripped. No idea why, because the one below came out fine, I think it was heat damaged? Anyways, is there any way to remove the screw or should I just take it to the dealership now? Also note that the body of the car is above the stripped screw so I can only use a ratchet to get there in the first place. Ideas?

 

Easy fix. Get a center punch (a cheap one will do, $1 - $3) and a hammer.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Pu...8center%29.jpg

First make an indentation on one side the screw with the punch and hammer. Then hold the center punch at an angle and use the hammer to tap the punch to turn the screw, counter-clock wise. Should be less than a minute.

 

Hey again redbull-1, I've read about screw extractors but I won't be able to get a drill in there. As for a punch, if you look at the picture you'll see chipping even around the screw. What if it breaks the top of the screw? The screw doesn't seem very strong anymore....

 

Doesn't really matter if there is chipping around the screw. It will most likely not break the head of the screw off, as you do not have to hit the punch with great force. Usually you will see the screw turn with the first or second punch, when hit at an angle.

 

What you will be doing is the same as removing shear bolts. See this link:

http://techauto.awardspace.com/punch.html

 

What size center punch am I looking for?

 

Center punches come in different size; but, that usually is not critical. Just go to a hardware store or auto supply shop and pick up a cheap one that is not too large. This method using a punch or cold chisel is actually commonly used in auto repair to loosen things.

I have several; but, for that, I use one that is around 4 1/2 inches long.

 

Thanks, I'll go get one soon.

 

No problem. Once you use this method and see that it works, you will probably use it again for other things that are stuck round the house.

Here is a picture of one of my punches:

 

did u try vice grips? spray with some penetrating fluid next time to.

 

Thanks redbull-1 and civicsmoke. I actually had to buy a punch a little bit longer than the one you mentioned because I couldn't get in comfortably. It looked something like this (they only had pin punches at this size):



But all in all it worked

 

man bro what didnt go wrong?

 

Why don't you just use a cut off wheel to cut a line across the head screw and back it out with a flat head screw driver? Thats how you remove the USDM Honda TPS sensor; since, they're riveted from factory.

 

a hack saw would have worked too, then use a flat head driver to remove. next time.

 

I did this same thing with a Dremel wheel and had to use my hand impact tool. Man...I’ll tell you what, it was REALLY seized in there. I installed new fasteners with a bit of copper never seize...

Dave - 65gtotrips