[elshiv]

Originally Posted by john hall

So what you are dealing with are stripped heads, not stripped threads. Let me offer a couple of suggestions first if I may. Before you try those removal tools, have you used a 6 point socket? Its pretty rare a 6 point will let the head strip. If a 6pt standard won't grab it, look into driving on a metric socket, 6 or 12 point--whatever fits the tightest. When all else fails try your removal tools. The only time I have had them to work was on bolts with screwdriver slots that were too buggered. Have used them a couple other times on heads that were worn off from something rubbing against it. What you have to watch on those is that they actually screw themselves down over the top of the head, make sure the tool doesn't bottom out against what the bolt is actually holding on. If it does the tool will just slip and shear off more of the head. If possible, post a couple pics of the bolts giving you trouble.

Regarding an air wrench, handy tool to have. For working on lawnmowers a cheap 1/2" drive tool and some 6 point impact sockets should be sufficient. I can't see dropping a ton of money on one just for working on a Cadet.

I just ordered a Dewalt 20V impact wrench. That should help. As for the heads I'm talking about here is a picture. I was able to get 2 of the 4 bolts out. The cone in the picture is the most stripped one. It's in a very tight spot and I don't have a box wrench that will fit in there. I'm using 12 point box wrenches for everything because I know they hold on better. I am going to pick up a 3/8" box non ratchet wrench at sears in a little bit as that is why it won't fit.