Yes, a drill can be used to remove stripped screws
If you’ve ever encountered a stripped screw, you know how frustrating it can be. Whether it’s due to wear and tear, using the wrong screwdriver, or simply overtightening, a stripped screw can feel like a major setback in your project. But fear not, because a drill can come to the rescue. With the right technique and tools, you can easily remove a stripped screw using a drill.
Assess the situation
The first step is to assess the situation and determine the severity of the screw stripping. If the screw head is only slightly stripped, you may be able to remove it using pliers or a manual screwdriver. However, if the screw head is completely stripped or damaged, a drill will be necessary.
Choose the right drill bit
Once you’ve determined that a drill is needed, the next step is to choose the right drill bit. You’ll want to select a drill bit that is slightly smaller than the screw head. This will allow the drill to grip the screw without causing any further damage.
Drill a pilot hole
Before attempting to remove the stripped screw, it’s a good idea to drill a pilot hole. This will create a small indentation in the center of the screw head, providing a starting point for the drill bit. To drill a pilot hole, simply place the drill bit in the center of the screw head and apply gentle pressure while drilling. Be careful not to drill too deep, as you don’t want to damage the material surrounding the screw.
Use reverse mode on your drill
Once you’ve drilled the pilot hole, it’s time to remove the stripped screw. Set your drill to reverse mode, as this will allow the drill bit to engage with the screw threads. Place the drill bit in the pilot hole and apply steady pressure while slowly turning the drill in reverse. The force generated by the drill should grip the screw and begin to unscrew it.
Use additional tools if necessary
In some cases, a stripped screw may be too stubborn to remove with just a drill. If you’re still having trouble, there are a few additional tools you can try. One option is to use a screw extractor, which is designed specifically for removing stripped screws. Another option is to use a pair of pliers or a wrench to grip the screw head and manually twist it out.
