Stripped idler pulley hex head

Has anyone stripped the head on the hex bolt on the idler pulley while removing it? Any suggestions as to how to procede?

 

If you have enough room, dremel out a deep slot, then use a flathead screwdriver to extract, preferably a big one that you can get some grip on and be able to torque on it. Or you can drill the hole, tap an extractor in it, and try that. Just dont break the extractor.

 

I'll give that a try. Is is best to pull the radiator to give a little more room to work with?

 

Yes, I would, I nicked my radiator when I replaced my thermostat, water pump, and idler pulley. Itll be a good opportunity to put fresh coolant in too. You'll also have alot more room to work with when the radiator is out

 

I sometimes have luck putting course valve grinding compound on the bit it it is not completely trashed. Sometimes the grit will give you just enough extra bite to get the bit to grab.

I keep a tube of Permatex brand it a squeeze tube in my home toolbox. You can get it at most auto parts stores.

It worked for me just the other day on some torx heads that my buddy couldn’t get out.

 

You can try going next size up on the hex and hammer it really good. Hopefully this will give you enough grip on the head to break the bolt loose.

 

I finally got it. Removed the radiator, and had to use a extractor on the bolt. but got the new idler and belt installed and no more squeel. Now i can here all the other noises the truck is making! Thanks for the help!

 

Sounds like you need a louder radio now

 

Or louder pipes!