The Easter Egg I don't want ! Stripped seat bolt

[SargeDiesel]

2022 JTRD

I purchased all the parts needed in order to do a DIY "seat jacker" mod. It's not that I am supper tall, but instead, long waisted.

As I start to remove/loosen the four seat bolts, the second one I come to (front, nearest the center console) isn't cooperating...

Turns out... It was stripped out/damaged from the factory. I tried 4/6/12 point sockets, a couple different long nose pliers and a couple other odd ideas, but no joy. Since these bolts are inherently tight, I can not get it to turn without fear of causing more damage to the bolt head. Everything I've tried does not get a good bite and eventualy slips.

Any ideas on the best route to take to remove it ?
I am under warranty, is this a warranty issue ? If so, it scares me to think of the hung over mech with an impact going to town on it.

Keep in mind the location/room available to access the area/bolt, it's almost impossible to get to it any other way other than coming straight down on it. The seat rail makes it nearly impossible to come at an angle or from the side.

Is there a special style socket for this type of bolt head ? Maybe a "STAR" socket ?

Please see attached pics.

Suggestions/idea's appreciated.
Thanks

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[kevman65]

It's an E torx and I don't remember the size. Should be mentioned in the instructions.

Yes, it has Loctite and yes it's tight.

 

[SargeDiesel]

It's an E torx and I don't remember the size. Should be mentioned in the instructions.

Yes, it has Loctite and yes it's tight.

Its a Torx socket the same as a "STAR" socket ?

No instructions, DIY kit.

I believe it's 10mm or 12mm

 

[Lost1wing]

Nope

 

[SargeDiesel]

Nope

Nope .... what ?

and yes (after researching)Torx and STAR... in my case E-Star is the same thing... torx is just a name brand.

 

[Lost1wing]

Looks like a polydrive. What does an unmolested one look like?

 

[Badunit]

Isn't "star" just the generic version of "torx" so as to not license the trademark?

Agree it does not look exactly like a torx. The splines are squared off. But I've not seen a bolt with an external polydrive head nor have I seen a socket to fit one. I'd try a torx.

 

[mkopec]

It's an E torx and I don't remember the size. Should be mentioned in the instructions.

Yes, it has Loctite and yes it's tight.

E-12 torx, I just used a Standard 3/8, and removed all mine the other day to install an OBA system.

 

[SargeDiesel]

Looks like a polydrive. What does an unmolested one look like?

Your right though, it does look more like a polydrive than a torx... which is strange, since most Jeep bolts are torx/star.

I will get a better pic of a good one... but it should be the same for all the newer models.

 

[SargeDiesel]

Isn't "star" just the generic version of "torx" so as to not license the trademark?

Yes

 

[SargeDiesel]

E-12 torx, I just used a Standard 3/8, and removed all mine the other day to install an OBA system.

I was using a regular socket also, worked for all but that one.

 

[Lost1wing]

They make an external bolt extractor. They work well on lug nuts and wheel locks. With any luck you can pound on a etorx and get it off.

 

[Lost1wing]

Ford used that style bolt for the seat belts. Most part store etorx sockets just fell apart. I'm not a fan of Mac tool prices , but their etorx sockets still look new after years of use.

 

[SargeDiesel]

They make an external bolt extractor. They work well on lug nuts and wheel locks. With any luck you can pound on a etorx and get it off.

Looks like I just need to buy a female.. a.k.a. E-torx set and try it. The 3/8" worked for the other three.

 

[Jefe1018]

FWIW, this is the kit I ordered for my Jeep.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09KG1TLFQ?ref=ppx_pop_mob_ap_share

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