Can't break t50 hinge bolts free

[Deleted member 30519]

I was trying to install the Smitty door hinges today and couldn't even get the first torx bolt out.y impact wrench wouldn't even free it and looks like it's little stripped. Do you guys think I can still get this off if I take it to shop..this is a before and after pic of the bolt.

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[hjdca]

Maybe, use a big leverage bar, try to tighten it a little bit first, then, try to slowly loosen it again.

 

[Jeeperjamie]

I'd be careful with it. Also make sure you get the doors lined back up. I've read a lot online about the doors being hard to get lined back up after those get installed.

 

[Deleted member 30519]

I'd be careful with it. Also make sure you get the doors lined back up. I've read a lot online about the doors being hard to get lined back up after those get installed.

I taped the outside before hand and put wedges under the door before I attempted to the get the first bolt off. I have a 1/2 breaker bar but I lost my 1/2 to 3/8 adapter so I gotta get a few things including a new t50.

 

[STLDAVE]

This may sound like a stupid suggestion, but are you sure the impact wrench is set to turn it the right way?

 

[Deleted member 30519]

This may sound like a stupid suggestion, but are you sure the impact wrench is set to turn it the right way?

That was the first thing I checked before starting. Now that I'm reading all these reviews online I am seeing tons of people with same issues. I should probably just take it somewhere eventually because if I strip this thing even more I'm gonna be pissed.

 

[AggieJeep]

For trim parts like this, I always use hand tools for breaking loose and final tightening. New torx bit with a breaker bar, preferably no adaptor. I also give it a little “seating” tap to help the bit set deeply in case a burr is preventing full depth seating. The suggestion above about tightening a bit then backing off can often help break it free. Sometimes a decent seating tap while some loosening pressure is applied can help.
Good luck.

 

[EugeneTheJeep]

You need to get the paint out first. Bang (very gently) the bit in there around in various directions.

 

[skubyact]

I used a blow torch on mine. Came off easily.

 

[Ghengis Don]

I had the same problem with the rear hinge bolts. In fact, I snapped off a T50 bit (admittedly, it was a bit old...) and had to fish that out with a drill bit (drill the hole and then use the drill bit to get an edge out where you can pick out the flotsam). Got two new Husky T50 bits and managed to break loose and install the hinge steps for the two on the driver's side and front on the passenger side before both bits started twisting/deforming. Stopped on the passenger rear door and took those back to Home Desperate for a refund. Looking for better tool resource as these Torque heads are all over the Jeep (Thank you, Mr. Obvious). I'm going to take the Gladiator to the dealer and if they jack it up, they have to fix it.

 

[dcmdon]

I used a blow torch on mine. Came off easily.

I was going to suggest heat. Maybe a heat gun or hair dryer is a better idea. Ha.

 

[Ghengis Don]

I was going to suggest heat. Maybe a heat gun or hair dryer is a better idea. Ha.

While heat may be a viable suggestion, we're talking about areas that are painted, so heat may not be the best solution...

 

[dcmdon]

While heat may be a viable suggestion, we're talking about areas that are painted, so heat may not be the best solution...

That was my whole point about using a hair dryer. Its not going to get anywhere near hot enough to ruin that paint. And if you are worried, then test it out somewhere inconspicuous, like on an interior fender under the hood.

If you want to be really scientific about it, test under the hood using a non-contact thermometer and prove that the paint is fine up until a certain temp. Then only heat to that temp when doing the door.

 

[Dakotaz]

Get one of these. Craftsman Hammer Impact. The hammer action keeps the bit in place while turning the bolt.
https://www.lowes.com/pd/CRAFTSMAN-Automotive-Tool-Set/1000594839

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