Nuts 101: 5 Ways to Remove a Stripped Nut

Nuts and bolts, also known as screws, provide a semi-permanent way to join parts. They are suitable for applications where part removal without damaging the substrate is necessary.
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Bolts fasten to nuts. Both come in different sizes based on three measurements: diameter, thread, and length. The most important measurement when choosing a bolt is the diameter, typically the thread diameter measured from tip to tip. The bolt pitch and thread diameter must match the nut.
Bolts and nuts are right-handed and left-handed. Tighten right-handed nuts and bolts together by turning clockwise. Left-handed bolts have thread spinning the other way, so they tighten by rotating counterclockwise.
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Nuts and bolts require tools for tightening. The specific tool needed depends on the type of bolt used. Installers should have the following tools: a Phillips-head screwdriver, a flathead screwdriver, an Allen hex bolt, and a spanner.

How to Securely Fasten a Bolt and a Nut

Over time, nuts and bolts can loosen, especially when under pressure. However, there are ways to reduce nut and bolt failure and keep them secure.

First, use a nylon nut with a rubber seal. The nylon nut will require a spanner to tighten or loosen it.
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Secondly, a washer is often necessary to distribute the load evenly across the components and to separate the bolt from the substrate, reducing material damage or friction between the bolt and the material. Spring washers have a slight bend in the circle, which keeps constant pressure on the bolt.

Thirdly, thread-locking fluid, such as Loctite, is applied to a bolt and left to dry, binding the nut and bolt together.

How to Get the Correct Measurement for Nuts

A nut and screw thread gauge determines the thread pitch, diameter, and length of a fastener.
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The thread gauge features side posts and holes, while bolt gauges have metric measurements on one side and inch measurements on the other.

The metric side features holes with a metric diameter and a millimeter ruler, while the other side has holes with an inch diameter and a ruler for measuring in inches.

When using a thread gauge, it is essential to note that it has side posts and holes. Bolt gauges have metric measurements on one side and inch measurements on the other. The metric side features diameter holes and a millimeter ruler for precise measurements, while the opposite side is for inch measurements, with corresponding diameter holes and an inch ruler.
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When determining the diameter and thread pitch of nuts, place the nut on the side prongs until it reaches the bottom. Then, check the measurements listed next to the prongs to determine the size. If the nut slides down the prong, it is considered a fine thread. It is a coarse thread if it only goes halfway down the prong.

Techniques to Remove a Seized or Stripped Nut

To remove a stubborn bolt, follow these seven steps:

1. Use a bolt extractor kit to create a conical hole in the bolt and grip it using a corresponding extractor bit.

2. Turn a step drill bit clockwise into the bolt.

3. Select an extractor bit that matches the size of the hole.

4. Grip the end of the extractor bit with a tap wrench or an adjustable spanner.

5. Turn the extractor bit counterclockwise until it grips the pre-drilled hole.

6. Turn counterclockwise until the bolt falls out.
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7. If the extractor does not grip, try a slightly larger bit to drill a hole and repeat the process.

How to Remove Stripped Nuts Fast Using Bolt Gripping Sockets Like a Rounded Nut Removal Socket and Ratchet 

To remove a stripped nut, follow these five steps:

1. Select a socket that matches the size of the bolt.

2. Attach the bolt extractor or rounded nut removal socket to the ratchet. They have reverse tornado-like grips on the inside, which bite into the nut. Try different sizes to get the best possible grip.

3. Place the socket on top of the rounded, stripped nut.

4. Turn the nut counterclockwise to back it off.
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5. Once you can turn it by hand, continue removing the nut.

How to Remove a Stripped Nut When the Rounded Nut Removal Socket Will Not Work

If a nut becomes stripped and appears round due to over-tightening with an impact tool, follow these steps for removal.

If a rounded nut removal socket fails, use a drill.

Obtain a range of drill bits, starting from the smallest size and working up to the largest. The most significant bit should be nearly the same size as the stud.

Begin with a 3/8" bit and gradually increase the size.

Apply WD40 for lubrication.

Apply steady pressure at a medium speed to drill into the stud approximately 1-1/2" deep until the bit passes through.

Gradually increase the drill bit size as you go.

Once you have drilled into the bolt approximately 1/2" with the most significant bit, use a socket over the nut and turn. The bolt should weaken so that the nut will snap off when torqued.
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Replace the bolt. 

Use a Torch to Remove a Seized Nut

Use a blow torch to remove a seized nut by contracting and expanding the metal. Heat the nut or bolt until the metal turns red, and then use a wrench to loosen it. The expansion and contraction of the metal should break through the corrosion on the threads. Repeat the process if necessary. Remove the nut and bolt. 

Use a Nut Splitter

Nut splitters work by slowly inserting a chisel into the flat side of a nut until it splits, permanently damaging the nut.

Select a nut splitter the same size as the nut you want to remove. Unscrew the chiseling feature with the handle until the nut fits inside the ring at the end of the nut splitter.

Position the chisel on the flat edge of the nut. Use a socket or spanner to tighten the nut splitter. The chisel will cut into the nut, and the installer can remove it.
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The bolt's frame should remain intact. 

How to Remove a Badly Damaged Nut with a Mallet

Gather bolt grips, a ratchet to connect the bolt grips, or a breaker bar and a mallet.

Use the proper bolt grip socket to fit over the nut. Make sure the socket is straight. Put the bolt grip socket loosely on the washer so it will not go down the whole way.

Use a mallet or hammer to bang the bolt grip until flush. Hit firmly so the socket covers the entire bolt. The grooves in the bolt grip will cut into the nut, ensuring a tight fit.  

Twist the ratchet or breaker bar until the nut loosens from the bolt.
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Remove the nut from the socket with a flathead screwdriver. Insert it into the nut. Use a hammer or mallet and tap around the circumference. The nut should pop right out. 

Where Can You Find Nuts for Sale?

Kelly Industrial Supply, Inc. offers the following wholesale nuts:
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• Hex nuts
• High nuts
• Kep nuts
• Lock nuts
• Machine screw nuts