Front Caliper Bolt Issue

[Curdster]

Help. I am in the middle of changing the discs on the front. OS went fine. NS the lower Allen head bolt is damaged and the No 8 Allen socket just turns. in the bolt head. Not sure what to do as I don't have a welder and before I tap in a No 9, thought it would be better to seek advice. The bolts have been torqued and the head looks to have been damaged last time the pads were changed.

However I have come across these, a set of bolt/nut gripper sockets. Has any one had a similar issue or used these things, and how did you get on?

http://www.screwfix.com/p/irwin-bolt-grip-nut-remo...

[Andy_mr2sc]

I can't vouch for this set but I have had a set of Snap On ones for years and they are amazing. They have got me out of many a situation. As a test I once turned a bolt head down until it was almost round and one of these still gripped it.

[Curdster]

Andy. Thanks. I will try to see if I can find some quality one. I just found the Screwfix ones by chance.

[More Steam]

I've got a set of these, but haven't used them in anger yet. They look and feel good quality though.

Is there any way you can heat it up and use a torx key/socket? Thats got me out of the poo before.

[Curdster]

Duncan thanks. Spoke to Paul (Brummie) who also suggested a Torx so off to my local tool man tomorrow with a bolt and see what I can get.

[anonymous-user]

I have used the Screwfix ones in anger and they are very good indeed.
They will undo where you think you have no chance.

[Sagi Badger]

Just remember the cap sockets 12.9 grade (allen head) are hard Vs. the 8.8 grade hex bolt head so where the nut shifters have a chance to bite you may struggle. I would try first with a Torx or Spline bit lumped in with a decent hammer. I have shifted all sorts this way.

Good luck

J