Unscrewing a loctited screw that just keeps spinning in handle

victorinox · Jun 22, 2016

Hi there folks.

I'm trying to unscrew a handle screw on a folder but it has been so heavily loctited (or whatever it is) up by the 1st owner that no matter what method I try (100w soldering iron, hairdryer, zippo lighter, butane torch) I still can't unscrew it without the female side spinning freely. I've measured the screw temp and i've gotten to temperatures of around 220F, but I still cant break the bond.

I am unable to get any leverage on the female side as it is just a flat circular head, and there's nowhere for me to clamp a set of pliers for example onto in order to stabilize the female side. I have also tried super gluing the female head to the scale, without success.

My worst case scenario would be to dremel out a slot in the female screw for a flathead or to straight up use a screw extractor drill bit because I am out of ideas.

Any thoughts before i go insane?

Thanks

cbwx34 · Jun 22, 2016

What usually works for me is to open the blade and put lateral pressure on it by pushing it against something like a piece of wood. That usually will bind the bolt enough to keep it from spinning.

(Just don't overdo it.)

tiguy7 · Jun 22, 2016

If the T-nut is under the pocket clip, you can put a piece of rubber band between the clip and the T-nut.

Spartan00 · Jun 22, 2016

Can you post pics ? I understand what your explaining but looking at it may give us an idea of what your working with.

One thing if you have one of this jar opener rubber pads that may grab it enough to let you break it lose . I've been in your shoes many times and somehow when you least expect it it'll break lose .

If you can't post pics what brand and what screw is it ?

victorinox · Jun 23, 2016

Hi guys thanks for the responses. Here is a picture. It is a Shirogorov knife f3

@cbwx34, tried that, definitely felt the screw had alot more pressure on it but ultimately it still spun

Rubber band no success

cbwx34 · Jun 23, 2016

Maybe try a combination? (Lateral pressure on the blade + holding the back with a piece of rubber).

My only other thought (haven't tried this myself)... drill a small hole partially thru, near the edge of the backside screw, and then hold it with a nail? Be easier (and less invasive) than trying to slot it for a screwdriver.

(Don't recognize the knife... maybe someone who does will have a better solution).

bralexander · Jun 23, 2016

I posted this in another recent thread about the same type pivot.....Use the eraser end of a pencil to put pressure on the flat side of the pivot while turning the screw. Easiest way, for me, is clamping the pencil in a vise, eraser pointing up, and setting the knife on top. Then you are putting the pressure directly on the pivot when you use your screwdriver. Just be carefully as you can slip the screwdriver off pretty easily.
Bruce

Spartan00 · Jun 23, 2016

I'd take the pocket clip off first to try to get a better grip on it .

I've had luck with a very small pair of needle nose pliers wrapped in tape so they don't scuff . It may grab it may not . If not try the eraser .

I'd work with it hot , or at least over the temp it takes to break loctite