Brake bleeder bolt stuck, now what?

My front driver side brake bleeder bolt was stripped and I can't take it off. I used a vise-grip to bite the bolt really hard like there is no tomorrow and turn it. But all it did was stripping more metal off the bolt. Now only half the metal is left on the bleeder bolt. I don't want to mess with it any more, fearing that I will make it to a point where the only solution is to replace the whole caliper.

Any hints?:screwy:

I would suggest removing the caliper and getting it on a work bench. Then a small pipe wrench should do the trick. If that fails, grind off the ugly end and start with the "EZ outs" or bolt removal kits ... the already existing center holes should make it an easier than usual procedure.

When you get the old one out, cover the new one with silicone paste ... and see if you can find some of those rubber boots that snap on to bleed screws, they help keep the corrosion down.

It may take the smallest size.. But I have used a stud removal tool.. Also craftman makes this worn blot removers that work well to,again you will have to try to find the right size and they come in a set..I was able to find a set for 9.00 on ebay I think sears sells them for about 18.00 to 10.00 on sale. I cannot recall the size and my windstar as 2 sizes on there brake bleeders front differs from the rear..

Usuallyl they twist off before metal separates from where you've got your tool on it. Penetrating oil? I've found that instead of trying to twist them out it works better to give short taps with a hammer on whatever tool you are using. Taps not torque.

I agree with the penetrating oil. Soak'm every day for a week if necessary. They will practically come out with your fingers.

I replaced a very rusty brake-line on a 95 Explorer this weekend. Soaked the fitting the weekend before, and it spun right off this weekend

This technique has never failed me.

Hello

What I've found helpful and seen used in auto shops is to heat the bleeder or fitting to red hot with a torch. A shot of oil on it and it will give up. The blue tip wrench helps out in many areas. :iceslolan :2cents:

Regards

Dan