Could use some help right about now!

[madbassplaya]

Trying to install some strap locks on a bass and ended up breaking a screw off into the body.


what's the best way to fix this problem?

could i drill the screw out? insert a wooden dowl?

 

[TomA1234]

Is there still a bit poking out of the hole? If so I would try and unscrew it with a pair of pliers. If there isn't then I would say it is a drill out and possible dowell and redrill.

 

[Madwatch]

Do you have a screw extractor bit? I would look into finding a set. I think sears sells them and probably other tool stores.

 

[madbassplaya]

the screw has broken into the body. i can't see it.

 

[Floyd Eye]

You'll have to dig it out. Use some needle nose pliers and find the screw. Dig it out then drill a 1/4" hole and glue in a piece of 1/4" dowel. Cut it flush, let the glue dry then install a new straplock, drilling a pilot for the new screw.

 

[Funny That Way]

I've used a very small, needle-shaped grinding bit on a dremel tool to grind away broken screws without much damage to the surrounding wood, but only if the screw isn't in too far. I'm guessing that won't work for you, but I thought I'd throw it out there.

Before I tried screw extractors, digging it out with pliers, etc. (all good ideas), I'd see how unhappy it made me just to drill a new hole next to the old one. The other options are still there if that doesn't work for you.

Caveat: Drilling next to an old screw is also a good way to break off a drill bit. Angle the drill a little away from the old screw once the hole is started.

-Tom

 

[Selta]

I have to ask, as it'd take a pretty hefty amount of force to break a screw; how did you manage that?!

 

[madbassplaya]

I have to ask, as it'd take a pretty hefty amount of force to break a screw; how did you manage that?!

i seriously think it was a defective screw or something.

i was using a ratchet driver as i always do. the screw was screwed in and i was tightening it up when pop, there it went.

 

[dannylectro]

I've broken these off before - cheap ass screws. You can't, I repeat, can't get it out without major surgery if it's broken off below the finish. Forget it. Drill a new hole, buy a new screw, and be careful. If you are clever, you can CAREFULLY drill the new hole close enough to the old one (but not INTO the old one!) and the button will almost completely cover up the old hole.

Good luck!