Just snapped a bolt while replacing the old one for titanium bolts. Tried forcing it like a moron even though it didn't line up. It snapped on the driver side fender. Should I DIY this issue or should I just bite the bullet and have a shop handle it? If I manage to DIY it, how to line up the hole? It feels like its cemented in place.




Also any tips on trying to remove the bolts that hold the radiator? Not the the top one with the bracket holder but the bottom side that lines up with the radiator bracket holder. It just spins if I tried to remove the bolt.

 

You have access to an EZ-Out (or similar) bolt extractor?

 

Yeah, I ordered a bolt extractor on Amazon already. Just waiting on the drill to be delivered. Hopefully that's the solution to my problem otherwise, I just added another problem on top of another and make it worse.

 

If you snapped the bolt on its way in, then its easy.

Grab the threads from the bottom if you can. Or take off the panel and grab the threads on top. Use some needle nose vise grips.

And just turn it until it threads its way out. It should almost thread by hand if it snapped on the way IN.

OR just drill into it. The drill will likely just spin it out easily. You shouldn't need an extractor.

 

That part circled in red isn't holding the radiator in. Just remove the two bolts holding the upper brackets. Un-clip the fans. Unplug the coolant temp sensor if you have a 06+. Remove the hoses. Pull the rad out.

Tip...use a factory service manual and follow the directions.

Remember, titanum bolts are likely not as strong as C10.9 steel ones that the car came with. And the friction factor within the threads is not the same.

Do not over torque the titanium bolts!

7.9LB-FT is for a M6 titanium bolt is probably at its safe limit. 16LB-FT for M8's. 33LB-FT for M10's. As a rule of thumb.

 

I use a punch to tap a dot into the center of the broken bolt. It helps center the drill bit of the extractor tool.

What made the problem worse?

 

If I somehow mess up drilling it, then I got another problem lol.

 

Do I have to remove the front bumper and headlights to access the bottom of the bolt. I see that the bottom is exposed, just not sure if I can access it if I remove the bumper.

 

You damaged the threads?

 

I overtightened the bolt and snapped. Not sure If I damaged the threads forcing it to fit. I'm just scared of making it worse if I drill on to it.