How to replace wheel studs?

clovergamecock · Apr 27, 2013

I have 2 studs that are completely stripped. I pulled the wheel and it appears that they are screw in studs. I am assuming that they are left hand threads? I am thinking that the best\only way to get them out is with a pipe wrench, I doubt vice grips would do it. Any suggestions?

Also, is there somplace that would be open on Sunday's like Tractor supply or Northern that would have the replacement stud and nut??

Thanks
Wade

whistlepig · Apr 27, 2013

If you have a grinder you can grind two flats on the stud for a wrench. For me that works a little better than a pipe wrench. A little quick heat on the stud will go a long way. If you have a welder you can weld a nut on the end of the stud. I don't know anyplace to buy one other than a dealer.

Leejohn · Apr 27, 2013

Auto parts have stud removal tool. Nice to have one.

lakeside · Apr 28, 2013

Another option to buying a stud remover is to make one. I have a set of stud removers/extractors and they can strip out the hole you drilled if they aren't anchored well. The type of extractors I have are tapered with reverse flutes. As you turn them counterclockwise they are supposed to grip the broken stud and unscrew it. However they can strip out the hole unless they are well hammered home.

I took drill rod and ground four flats with a taper with two flat at the other end for a wrench. You then drill a hole in the broken stud that will allow the tapered rod to go in. Hammer the end of the rod to anchor the rod and then keeping pressure on it, unscrew the rod and stud. That`s for a stud or bolt broken off at the surface. If the wheel stud is sticking out and you have a welder, welding a nut to the end of the stud is the way to go. It not only gives you something to grip the heat from welding also helps.

I also bought a set of reverse fluted drills last year off the Internet. The idea is as you drill out the stud the drill is supposed to grip and unscrew the stud. I haven`t had a change to use them yet