Need help removing a stuck screw

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Doing some work on the interior and couple small phillips screws are on so tight. Like an idiot, I kept trying with a screwdriver, which pretty much mangled the head (the cross is now a big hole). Anyone have advice on removing this thing?
 
You could try to turn it into a flat head. I've used a flat head screwdriver with a fine head and a hammer to create a flat head flange.

Alternatively a dremel can do the same thing with a cutting tool. Its delicate work but its saved my butt plenty of times.
 
Thanks you guys. I think I will grind in a slot and make it into a flathead. Hopefully I don't break anything.
 
Originally Posted By: euhysh
Doing some work on the interior and couple small phillips screws are on so tight. Like an idiot, I kept trying with a screwdriver, which pretty much mangled the head (the cross is now a big hole). Anyone have advice on removing this thing?


Japanese car? Some use JIS type screws that look like phillips, but are slightly different. Phillips screwdrivers fit, but not very well. When you come across a tight fastener, the slot strips.

http://centralhobbies.com/Tools/jis.html

Some manufacturers use Pozidrive fasteners for some applications. Like the JIS, the tight ones can strip with standard phillips screwdrivers.
 
If you google "screw removal" you will also come up with another system called "grab it" or something.
 
Originally Posted By: PandaBear
Used a Craftsman screw extractor on a drill, works wonder and it came out instantly.


I don't use the screw extractors often in the shop, but when I do need them they're a lifesaver. Great for stripped phillips head screws and smaller torx.

Or, like I did tonight - drill the screw heads until they pop off, and then the leftover part can usually be unscrewed by hand. All the tension is just underneath the head, so when that's gone it's no problem to get it out. Just make sure you have screws to replace it when done.
 
Try valve grinding compound on the phillips screw driver. It makes a huge difference in the grip.
Ted
 
The Alden X-OUT
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