rc0107

Have been thinking about replacing a scratched wheel cover on my 2004 SC430, but there are a few stripped Allen screws that I just couldn't get out. Finally saw this guy's demonstration on YouTube--link here: .
His method looked promising to me. Gave it a try today and it really worked! I got all 4 stripped and stuck screws out! I used a 7/32 to drill (make sure you drill enough to create good depth in the hole) and then hammered in either a T35 or T40 Torx drill bit. Probably many of you have done a better job before, but as a guy who doesn't know too much about fixing cars, I was pretty happy about the outcome for 1 hr of work on a Father's day! :-) Happy Father's Day!

Harold57

Pretty cool idea. That's a good tip to try to remember. Thanks for sharing rc0107.

Buggeroff6

Why would I use a standard drill bit and star key when there are "kits" called easy-out or "as seen on tv" removers? I can't tell the difference, except the kits seem a little more purpose designed-but they're making 70 percent more profit, probably/
I also tried the power drill with a 1 size Harbor Freight bolt extractor, but this is supposed to be hammered gently onto the OUTSIDE Of the bolt--don't do this unless you either want to have to buy a new powerdrill and or tendons from the torque. It also didn't really grab onto anything on the side, and wouldn't work at all if your wheel cover is still on!

DshngDaryl

if u get super frustrated, you can just buy a new wheel. i found u one for $150 in providence
https://providence.craigslist.org/wt...509810556.html

Buggeroff6

Tired of using brilliant ideas others have success with but only cause you more frustration?
For $35, you can have a small roll of 3m "WET/DIRT/ALL TEMP" 'velcro' (available at H. Depot, wherever Lexus SC pie wheel bolts are unknown). These are outdoor use rated (obviously) and state a 10-13lb range...you'd have to be Einstein to mount the wheel slanted off the center axis enough to knock this off without pulling first, imho.
I am in the process of applying 5'' strips in vertical bands, covering the inside of the plastic cap bolt holes (hence less poss. rust/h20 intrusion than stock washer/bolts), adding a bit of crazy glue on the edge of each, then putting on the other matching strips, a little dab of c.glue in addition and pushing the darn things onto the wheel.
My shop says it "won't work", but I've taken 6 hrs/15 bolts torn to wheel surface with the frozen remaining within the wheel forever...the caps fit just fine for a smooth, velcro like shave, err, fit!
However, IF you do see my little SC hubcaps (by the side of the roadway), please send em' on home!
Otherwise, buying new wheels is obnoxious, specially' b/c you can't use sc pie wheels or plates for ash trays or fire pits.
Hmmm, if the covers fall off, that'll be my next attempt-stay cool, folks!

DshngDaryl

I am interested in seeing how this works out. It seems like the certrifical force of the rotating tire would be too much for the velcro.

But maybe you are on to something.

doobs

Instead of buggering up a torx driver, one of these would be the proper tool for removing the screws.