Stubborn Door Lock Pivot Retainer Plate Bolts

[Jason P.]

I am removing all of my 58 Vette's door lock and window mech to clean and refurbish. I have 2 or 3 stubborn bolts that wont come out and the top head is starting to strip. The bolts I am particularly referring to are for what Corvette Central calls the "Door Lock Pivot Retainer Plate".

I have been squirting PB Blaster on them for a few days now without much luck.

I know I cant use heat on the doors because of the fiberglass to help get the bolts out. Is my only other option to drill them out? I still get nervous when I drill out bolts for some reason I guess I am scared that I may damage the threads.

Here is the area I am talking about:

C1-1956-1962-Chevrolet-Corvette-Door-Lock-Pivot-Retainer-Plate-W-4-Screw-Auto-Accessories-of-Ame.png

Anyone have any tips or suggestions to share?

Thanks,
Jason

[Gary B.]

Re: Stubborn Door Lock Pivot Retainer Plate Bolts

Jason,

Do you have access to use a hammer impact driver like this one?

https://www.amazon.com/CRAFTSMAN-Impact-Driver-8-Inch-CMMT14104/dp/B07R96M9VW

Gary

[Jason P.]

Re: Stubborn Door Lock Pivot Retainer Plate Bolts

Just purchased the tool and excited to give it a try.

[Roger W.]

Re: Stubborn Door Lock Pivot Retainer Plate Bolts

Jason, let us know how the tool works out. We all have had those bolts that just won't come out, no matter how much penetrating oil we put on them.

[Leo G.]

[Bill M.]

Re: Stubborn Door Lock Pivot Retainer Plate Bolts

Apply a little heat with propane torch it will cause the metal to expand and contract. Usually breaks the bond.

[Gary B.]

[Bert L.]

Re: Stubborn Door Lock Pivot Retainer Plate Bolts

I purchased the Lisle version over 50 years ago when I first acquired my '60,
because I desperately needed the clutch-head bit that was included as
part of their bit and driver set . The tool has come to my rescue countless times,
the original bits still don't show any appreciable wear. I often also use the chuck
with a 3/8 ratchet and bits as needed.
Yep, made in the good ol' USA ...

[Jason P.]

Re: Stubborn Door Lock Pivot Retainer Plate Bolts

I ended up getting the tool and it is AWESOME!! Got all of them out. Thanks everyone!