How to Remove a Stripped Oil Pan Screw
- 1). Choose a screw extractor smaller than the oil pan screw. Look at the bottom of the packaging to determine the corresponding drill bit size needed to drill the pilot hole for extraction. The drill bit must be rated for metal work.
- 2). Drive the vehicle onto car ramps. Place wheel blocks under the rear wheels to prevent the car from rolling backwards. Engage the emergency brake.
- 3). Position the mechanic's creeper under the front bumper. Lay down and pull yourself under the vehicle.
Place an oil drain pan under the vehicle's oil pan. - 4). Start a pilot hole in the center of the damaged oil pan screw. Be sure to keep a slow and steady hand while drilling to prevent further damage to the screw. Stop drilling at 1/8-inch depth.
- 5). Tap the screw extractor into the pilot hole gently using a rubber mallet. Be careful not to break the screw extractor off inside the pilot hole.
- 6). Grasp the end of the screw extractor with an adjustable (crescent) wrench and turn it in a counterclockwise motion until the oil pan screw is removed.
