W126 - Stripped out bolt on steering wheel. Options?
 

On my SDL I pulled the airbag to see that the large ~10mm bolt that holds down the wheel to the column is stripped already. Maybe that's why the switch was bad when I picked up the car. :rolleyes:

What are my options to try to remove this thing? I need it off so I can replace my combo switch. Only thing that's crossed my mind yet is to JB Weld a 10mm hex socket in there and see if that'll be strong enough to try to get it out.

Aside from that I really have no clue where to start on its removal... :confused:

when they strip at the shop, i use an air hammer with a pointy bit, that usually does the trick

:( Looks like I'll have to wait until it's roadbound to take it somewhere. I'd prefer to do it myself but I may not have that option as my air tools are about 300mi from me.

What sorta pointy bit are ya talkin' about, could that be purchased locally?

Also, any chance ya have a part number for that bolt? :)



As always, thanks! :D

I'd try a TORX that you can get in there (WITHOUT EXCESSIVE FORCE -no pounding , especially important in this area). This has worked for me on marginal bolts.

I'm wondering how much force is needed to get this bolt out. Seems as if it has Lok-Tite on it too... :confused:

it does have blue locktite, the part number for the bolt is 126-990-03-12

Well hopefully I can get this resolved here.

I have had good results w/ the JB weld. Clean real well and use the quick set epoxy sold at wally world.

1) Apply a good penetrant like Aero Kroil and let it sit at least an hour.

2) If you have access to a welder, weld on a bolt and remove.

2) If you don't, try and get some heat on it to "melt" the "blue" Locktite, and then try the TORX method Strife stated;

IMHO, I would rather try and DRILL out the bolt with a LEFT-hand cobalt-bit, rather than try and use an EZ-OUT or similar instrument, because if those shear-off, (and they do!) you are SOL.

Good luck,
:-) neil

well i think u have two choices and 1 isn't jbweld

first is to try the pointy thing. get urself a center punch, get close to one of the points meaning off center so when you strike the punch it digs into the side of the nut bolt. grind your punch to a very sharp point first couple of taps should be straight in to create a little dimple hole. use light taps. now swing the punch around in your dimple and strike the punch. this might work if you take your time and get the dimple set up so you can drive against it.

the second is to go to sears. they have a set of easy outs with internal fingers [made just for this type of problem] which bite against the nut or bolt head. once it gets a grip use the proper size socket and you remove the assembly all at once.