Hey Guys,

Last week on my dayoff I decided to remove my roof rack, so I can paint them b/c the paint has been chipping for awhile. So, I took out my trusty screw driver and starting unscrewing each bolt. I turned and turned, but it wasnt going nowhere. After the first 3 bolts popping out no problem, the last 5 bolts didnt want to leave.

My problem is I have 5 bolts that are stripped. How can I remove the threads or bolts, so I can continue? Oh yeah, It started to rain the last couple days and now I'm worried about water getting through the open holes...

Thank You all in advance, since I you all helped me on my last problem...

John

One method is to drill them out.  Just get a drill bit that is a bit larger then the screws.  Then drill into the center of the head, eventually the head will start spinning as you drill through and into the screw itself.

Then you should be able to lift your roof rack off.  Once it is removed you should have enough of the stud left over to grab with a set of vice grips and remove manually.  Get the correct size/thread replacements and remount.

The threads are actually threaded inserts pressed into the roof. You can remove the headliner around the edges and hold the insert with pliers while turning the philips screw. My guess is the inserts are turning not stripped. My 4dr. was like that.