I was removing the plastic drain plug on my raypak 406a heater and it broke off. I hate to admit it but I think I was tightening it instead of loosening it. What can I do?
I screwed up!!!
- Thread starter jrguzmanr
- Start date
A tool such as this might help you extract the broken plug: SpeedOut Damaged Screw Extractor Bolt Extractor Set - - Amazon.com
Worst case if that doesn't work, you could use a torch and melt the plug out...
Worst case if that doesn't work, you could use a torch and melt the plug out...
Heat a screwdriver you don't value much red hot and force it into the plug. You may have to reheat several times. When things cool down, put the screwdriver in and unscrew it. Lefty loosey righty tighty unless the original was stamped L or there's a warning decal you ignored that said left hand threads. Clockwise tightens, counterclockwise loosens.
Failing that, break out a drill and see if any mechanic-type friends have a set of ez-outs.
Looks like you can still get the part http://cdn.globalimageserver.com/fetchDocument.aspx?id=4dec255d-36e5-4970-b778-9ddcc46b0d48
Failing that, break out a drill and see if any mechanic-type friends have a set of ez-outs.
Looks like you can still get the part http://cdn.globalimageserver.com/fetchDocument.aspx?id=4dec255d-36e5-4970-b778-9ddcc46b0d48
I like that screwdriver idea for a plastic plug. IDEA STOLEN! Guess I have to go break off a plastic plug somewhere and try it out...
Richard, thanks for the screwdriver idea, I will try that this weekend.
JVTrain, you are more than welcome to comeby and supervise/assist this new endeavor!
I just ordered the part, it was either 0.00 for shipping for next week or $50 for expedited shipping, guess which one I selected!
JVTrain, you are more than welcome to comeby and supervise/assist this new endeavor!
I just ordered the part, it was either 0.00 for shipping for next week or $50 for expedited shipping, guess which one I selected!
Most drain plugs are 1/4" pipe thread. You can get one at any hardware store. I would suggest brass. Also, if the drain plug goes into a cast iron part, I would suggest coating the threads with a marine grease to prevent the threads from rusting. But, don't block the hole. Try a magnet near the hole to see if it sticks. If it does, the part is cast iron.
