I was removing the OEM roof rack yesterday to replace it with a new one. Everything was going fine until I got to removing the bolt in the middle section where the bolt was so tight that it stripped and now I'm unable to take it out. I tried to put some WD40, but that didn't work either. Any idea on how to get the stripped bolt off? Should I go to a mechanic who may have something to take it off? Or is there some tool I can buy for this purpose?
Roof Rack bolt
- Thread starter Matsui
- Start date
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If you've rounded the head, you'll need an extractor. Something like this: Extractor set
Also, WD-40 isn't a penetrant (unless you are referring to the specialist line). You'll need a penetrant like this: PB Blaster
Also, WD-40 isn't a penetrant (unless you are referring to the specialist line). You'll need a penetrant like this: PB Blaster
That head looks pretty good to me. Is it spinning because the base broke below it? If so, try prying up on the bottom of the bolt and turn gently (after PB Blaster) and hope it catches on the broken mating surface. If the head is worse than it looks, bang the smallest 6 pt. Socket than almost fits (after PB Blaster).
- Thread starter
- #5
I think the bolt is just way too tight and I probably don't have the right angle standing on the small step ladder to be able to rotate because the wrench keeps slipping off. I climbed up the roof and was able to use the bolt extractor to loosen the passenger side. But I wasn't able to on the driver side because it is very tight and the wrench kept slipping off. I will likely stop by a shop near me to see if they can help. There is a Firestone nearby....will see if they are willing to do that for me for a cost...