BROKEN POST SCREWS

[millsy]

Just determining the best method of removing these broken post screws. Is drilling the only method ? Have about 12 to do.

[beaky]

just a dumb question, do they have "T" nuts under the playfield or were they wood screws?

[millsy]

Wood screws Beaky, I reckon they have never been removed since new (1966) -The PF has just about zero wear.

[beaky]

If they are a wood screw you might be able to use a tool called an easy out.
you have to drill a hole into the broken screw and depending what type of easy out you have (square or round) the square type you bang it into the hole you drilled in the screw and then turn it anti clockwise and the screw comes out. the round type have a left hand self taping thread, you just screw it in and keep turning it until the screw comes out.

i dont know if you will get one small enough though.

[ktm450]

Unfortunately you cant get easy outs that small, you could try a left handed drill, once in far enough they will bite and unscrew the screw from the PF. Obviously you run the drill in reverse.

[millsy]

I dont think they come small enough - problem with them is if the easyout snaps -impossible to drill out as they are hardened steel. Looks like only solution is drilling out (Pain -probably take me a week)

[millsy]

Unfortunately you cant get easy outs that small, you could try a left handed drill, once in far enough they will bite and unscrew the screw from the PF. Obviously you run the drill in reverse.

MMM -sounds worth trying -will post if successfull.

[Ballywannabe]

If they are close to the surface, try using a dremel (or equivalent) with a small grinding wheel to cut a slot in the post and then use a fine screwdriver to remove.  If the playfield gets scored, it is quite clean (easy to repair) and should be covered by the new post.  An alternative for stubborn screws is to drill a series of fine holes around the screw, then use a pair of fine needle nose pliers to try and screw the post out.  Again, most the damage should be covered by the new post.

cheers
Ian

[AskJacob]

Dremel have a small diamond engraving tool shaped like a "T" - the flat top of the T is like a tiny grinding wheel. Perfect size to reach the post without touching the playfield...

With some care I was able to cut slots into the broken posts, and then unscrew them with a normal flat screwdriver.

Cheers
Jacob

[millsy]

Have a Dremel - will get the tip from work tomorrow and try it

[deadlydave]

Tough job there millsy 

They would be pretty difficult to drill out I would think.
Dremel looks to be best option, but your not going to have much metal left either side of slot.
Cannot think of any other options, hope they come out for you.

Cheers
Dave

[millsy]

Decided to re-drill next to broken screws.
Problem is I have desperately   been trying to get new post screws.
60,s Ballys used 1-3/4 inch / 45cm. I can only find #6 screws this length - need #4 screws but cant find the right length. Gottliebs used a smaller length screws. Have tried PBR,Marco etc-no luck.
Anyone know where I can get them -Sydney area or Online.

[ddstoys]

Are you after new or just replacements?   If you just want replacement ill have some i can send ya

[dj10555]

Hi Millsy,

I have removed broken bolts, screws by centre punching the head, drilling out the centre using a drill bit slightly smaller than the screw. If you use cutting oil or wd40 on the drill bit it will drill much easier. Not sure what this might do to the playfield to you would need to keep this covered up. Once you have the screw hollow you can use a screwdriver or punch to collapse the screw inwards and it should come out with a pair of pliers. You may also need to sharpen the drill bits it you find them blunting after a couple of goes. 

regards Derek

[millsy]

Are you after new or just replacements?   If you just want replacement ill have some i can send ya

New ones needed thanks Daniel - When I find them I will buy a lot for spares.