Gorf joystick bolts - removing

westal_sage

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I have read some threads on this very topic but thought I'd bring it up again in search of new ideas. I'd like to get into this stick one time, replace the non-working lights and then replace those pesky security bolts with normal ones.

But I just *cannot* get them out. I bought a 50-something piece security torx set and none of them will grab hold. I've read that they're not torx head but actually security-hex head, but I can't find any kind of security bit that's just plain ol' hex and not torx. But by now the bolt heads are probably pretty well stripped, anyway.

So, any ideas on how to get those out without damaging the original handle sections?
 
They are an allen screw but have the security dimple in the center. Find the right bit. Use something like a needle to scrape around to knock out the rust and grime so the bit will go far enough into the screw. If its partially stripped use some fine valve lapping compound on the bit and it will tighten it up enough to get the stripped screw out.
 
Pick up this bit set at Harbor Freight for $12.99

gorfbit.jpg
 
Thanks!!

Thanks very much guys!! I ordered that bit set from Harbor. Hopefully it works and I haven't already stripped out the bolts too badly. But I'll try some lapping compound if that's the case. I was able to scrape out quite a bit of rust with a needle. Thanks again!! -Wes
 
Got the bolts out

Well I got the bit set in but as I feared, those bolts were just too stripped. As it turns out, they were just plain rusted SOLD on there - like welded, lol. So I didn't try the lapping compound, I just went ahead and went to extremes and broke out the dremel.

It worked better than I expected. I did have to cut into the plastic some, but was able to cut slots into the bolts and then forcibly unscrew them. You could hear a *CRACK!* as a bolt finally gave up the ghost. I figured the threads would be stripped, but nope - now I have some nice *simple, simple* phillips machine screws in there. They are 10-32 3/8" and perfect.

Meanwhile I have some repro handle halves on order. I think it will all turn out nicely. Even now it's not too bad - and I now have the trigger switch perfect and both bulbs replaced.

Oh does anyone know exactly what LED drop-ins would work and where I could find them? I've only heard about them.

Thanks for the help, guys!!

- Wes
 
I believe the bulbs are automotive 1137s, but you should do a google search to make sure. They are .08 amp, 14 volt wedge lamps. I mistakenly threw the box that mine came in out. They cost about $3 at most auto stores.

Steve
 
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