Toolbag Tales-Homemade and improvised tools

[Gibbo2286]

Same as that brake disc screw a hammer and centre punch, I've done quite a few and usually they're not too tight.

[Gibbo2286]

A nut in the earth clamp of a welder then put a spot weld inside the nut. They aren't very tight disconnect the battery before welding

I wouldn't put a spot welder anywhere near one of these all electronics/computers modern cars.

[myglaren]

centre drill it and an easy-out would be safest and simplest

[NewcastleFalcon]

Same as that brake disc screw a hammer and centre punch, I've done quite a few and usually they're not too tight.

Thanks for the replies.

That appears to be the most effective internet verdict Gibbo. A sharp centre punch on the edge, and your point about the "not too tight" bit once you get them started is often mentioned. At least the factor of rust should not come into play as it can with the brake disc screws. Not keen on a drilling option, mainly from the point of view of my own equipment and accuracy.

Regards Neil

[myglaren]

Dremmel should get in without much trouble

[Gibbo2286]

Dremmel should get in without much trouble

That's one tool I've never owned.

[myglaren]

Aldi/Lidl almost always have cheap ones that are said to be very good.
I don't use mine much but it is invaluable when it is needed.

[Paul-R]

Same as that brake disc screw a hammer and centre punch, I've done quite a few and usually they're not too tight.

+1 for that.

[NewcastleFalcon]

nf own work

Excellent info on the "security" shear head bolts, but if I can avoid touching them I will.

So any creative thoughts on how to remove that little retaining screw for the ignition switch with literally no back room to get an angled screwdriver in. We can rule out removing the steering column as an option for now.

Tips and wrinkles welcomed

regards Neil

[mickthemaverick]

It looks like you may have room for a screwdriver bit from a set as below. Determine the right bit, mix up some araldite rapid and coat the bit tip and then strap the bit onto the screw with a cable tie. Leave it overnight and then carefully undo with small spanner or long nosed pliers' It has worked for me 5 or 6 times and failed a couple so it may do it:

borrowed from amazon

[NewcastleFalcon]

Like it Mick, very creative. The black switch is held by 2 screws, one of them much easier to access so remove that first and find a decent tight fitting bit like you say may just work. It really is incredibly tight for access room. I suspect you are supposed to take the barrel off, but the shear head bolts obviously don't make that easy.

May even have to grind down the length of the screwdriver bit to give that method a chance!

REgards Neil

[NewcastleFalcon]

How long should it take to undo 2 screws? The entire afternoon if you have to forge your own tools to get them out.

nf own work

The black thing is the ignition switch

Regards Neil

[mickthemaverick]

Well done Neil, glad to see you cracked it!! Now you just need to refit the repaired/replacement one!!

[myglaren]

Have you none of these Neil?

Invaluable.

[NewcastleFalcon]

Have you none of these Neil?
Invaluable.

Would have been handy Steve and saved a bit of time at the blacksmiths!

Regards Neil