[RESOLVED] Replacing Throttle Plate Screws

[DSMboostin15]

So once again Mitsubishi decided to screw me by using Phillips screws instead of bolts/machine screws. I managed to strip both screws that hold on the throttle plate. I've found that some people have used an impact driver to get them out, but I feel that the screws are beyond doing this. Since I can't buy just the screws from the dealer and I don't feel like waiting days for them to be shipped, so the question is, do you guys recommend drilling them out and re-tapping them for a different size thread? If this is the case, are there any recommended pitches that should be used? If it is possible, I'd like to use a machine screw instead of a Phillips.


Ryan

 

[Locke]

Drill them out. Use whatever pitch and screw you find convenient.

 

[DSMboostin15]

I kinda figured that I would use a fine pitch, but I didn't know if there was enough material to make a good thread and if the throttle plate is just a clearance hole or if it is threaded as well.

 

[92awddsm]

Dill them out and tap to an 8-32. This is really close to stock size and they can be found anywhere.

 

[killab443]

Ive had luck grabbing the heads with a very small set of vice grips and turning them out. As long as you use the correct tipped screw driver you should never have any problems.

 

[DSMboostin15]

Thanks Keith, that's what I was looking for. I have plenty of 8-32 screws at work, stainless at that. Killab443, I'll take your advice and try using vice grips to get the screws out.

 

[94cyclone]

I've had luck using my rotary tool to create a deeper wider Phillips cross pattern in screws. This allows you to use a #3 phillips head screw driver (the large flat tipped one) instead of the #2 (small and pointed).

 

[92awddsm]

Thanks Keith, that's what I was looking for. I have plenty of 8-32 screws at work, stainless at that. Killab443, I'll take your advice and try using vice grips to get the screws out.

I generally use stainless button head screws from Home depot anytime I pull one apart.

The stock screws are swedged on the back so it is easier if you file or grind the back of the screw even with the throttle shaft before trying to removed them. If all else fails, drill the head off of the screw and then the screws can be removed through the back side using pliers, vice grips, needle nose, etc.

 

[rich3389]

I never had any problems getting those out with an impact screwdriver.

 

[jshuman]

One of mine stripped when I was relpacing the shaft seals. I was able to use an easy out to remove the screw. You might try that.

 

[DSMboostin15]

I was able to get the screws out by putting a lot of pressure on the screwdriver using a #2 Phillips bit. One appears to be salvageable and I was able to get another one out of a different throttle plate. Thanks for all the input guys.

 

[Defiant]

Use lapping compound on the tip of the screwdriver to get some traction.