A bolt extractor is an essential tool in any car garage, as it helps meet the challenges of damaged or corroded bolts.
If you are a professional in the automotive sector looking for a comprehensive understanding of this tool, this guide will provide you with the information you need to make the right decisions.
Keep reading to find out about the ins and outs of bolt extractors, as well as the essential functions and crucial relevance they play in vehicle maintenance operations.
What is a Bolt Extractor?
A bolt extractor is a tool that allows you to remove bolts, nuts, pins, or other fasteners that are damaged, rusty, broken, or too tight.
Removing these elements with ordinary tools such as screwdrivers or spanners is generally impossible.
What are Bolt Extractors Used For?
Bolt extractors are used to fit into the damaged fastener and apply a twisting force – generally in the direction opposite to that used to tighten it – to loosen and remove the problematic bolt, nut or pin.
This tool can be found in different shapes and sizes, depending on the type and size of the fastening element that requires removal.
How Do You Choose the Right Size of Bolt Extractor?
It is essential to ensure that the tool works safely and effectively. As such, you should:
- Identify the size of the fastener: measure the diameter of the fastening element or check its specifications, which are usually marked on the head of the nut or bolt;
- Choose a puller of the appropriate size to the fastener you want to remove;
- Check the type of extractor: in addition to their size, there are different styles of bolt extractors, such as reverse spirals and claw pullers. Choose the type that best suits your needs;
- Consider space and accessibility: if you work in tight spaces or have limited access, choose an extractor suited to the circumstances.
Are there Specific Bolt Extractors for Cars and Lorries?
Yes, there are specific bolt extractors designed for cars and lorries.
Typically, these bolt removal tools are tailored to the everyday needs and challenges encountered in the automotive industry.
Some vehicle bolt extractors can be more compact to fit in tight spaces under the hood of the vehicle. Others are designed to deal with specific types of fasteners common in cars.
In the automotive industry, bolt extractors are helpful in removing a variety of damaged, broken or jammed fasteners.
What Types of Studs Can Be Removed with an Extractor?
Some of the most common types of bolt extractor on vehicles that can be removed with an extractor include:
- Wheel bolts: it is essential to ensure that the puller is suited to the size and type of wheel bolt;
- Exhaust bolts: these rust easily due to heat and exposure to the elements, making them difficult to remove;
- Brake bolts: bolts within a car’s brake system can become jammed and require removal with an extractor;
- Engine/transmission mount bolts: these help remove fasteners that connect the engine or transmission to the chassis;
- Suspension bolts: screws that hold the components of the suspension in place may need extractors if they are damaged or corroded;
- Engine or alternator bolts: these can be challenging to remove, especially if the vehicle is old or exposed to a lot of moisture.
What is the difference between an Electric Bolt Extractor and a Manual one?
The main difference lies in the method used to apply force.
An electric extractor uses electrical energy to automatically apply a twisting force. It is faster and requires less physical effort, making it suitable for repetitive tasks.
A manual bolt extractor, however, requires manual force to twist. It is slower but provides more control over the force applied, making it suitable for smaller-scale tasks, more delicate processes, or hard-to-reach places.
Where Can You Buy a Bolt Extractor?
You can purchase this and other tools for your garage from a KROFtools dealer.
Which Bolt Extractors are Available in the KROFtools Catalogue?
If you are looking to improve the maintenance equipment available in your garage, check out the KROFtools catalogue, where you will find the following bolt extractors:
Bolt Extractor 6pcs M-3/M-24
This set of bolts has six measurements between M3 and M25.
Click on the image to find out more about our Bolt Extractor 6pcs M-3/M-24 (Ref. 1295).
25-piece Bolt Extractor Set
With this set of extractors, you can extract broken screws and bolts of dimensions between 5 and 16mm.
Click on the image to find out more about our 25pcs Bolt Extractor Set (Ref. 0512).
Stud Removal and Installer Set 9-piece
This kit allows you to not only extract but also fit bolts with the following measurements: M6x1.0, M8x1.25, M10x1.25 and M10x1.50.
Click on the image to find out more about our Stud Removal and Installer Set 9-piece (Ref. 0516).
How Much Does a Bolt Extractor Cost?
A bolt extractor costs between 15 and 30 euros. The price of a kit or set of bolt extractors can vary from tens to hundreds of euros.
Top tips to keep Bolt Extractors in Good Condition
To keep your bolt extractor in good condition and ensure its long-term effectiveness, here are some precautions you should take:
- Clean the extractor to remove dirt or debris after every use. Use a clean cloth and appropriate solvents if necessary;
- Store the extractor in a clean, dry place to prevent corrosion. Consider using a toolbox or storage case to protect it;
- Check the tool regularly for signs of wear, damage, or deformation. Replace any damaged parts immediately;
- Regularly apply an appropriate lubricant to the extractor’s moving parts, such as the reverse spiral thread, to ensure smooth operation.
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