Removing rusty screws from hull

[lakefisherman]

Having a tough time getting the last few broken rusty screws out that are by the gunnel. They held the boat cover slat sockets. I'm replacing them with aluminum rivets.

I sprayed all the screws a couple of days before trying to remove them, but some were so rusty the heads broke off.

The remaining ones are difficult to get at, even with needle nose vice grips.
I tried a punch, and a drill.

Any good ideas?

Thanks

 

[Reel Kahuna]

Re: Removing rusty screws from hull

Try carbide tip drill bit.

 

[lakefisherman]

Re: Removing rusty screws from hull

I think you need high rpm's for that.

 

[Reel Kahuna]

Re: Removing rusty screws from hull

A variable speed drill motor using lots of oil on the carbide bit will do it. Maybe a Dremel tool to grind off the head of the screws may work too.

 

[mortaz]

Re: Removing rusty screws from hull

You can do any of the chooses
heat the screw
Hit the screw and support the back side
First hit the screw from all directions when punch it
Drill around it
See which one is working with you

 

[Lion hunter]

Re: Removing rusty screws from hull

I had several (hundred it seemed) do that when I rebuilt my boat. Mine were hidden by the rub rail so I ground off the head and any that was sticking out the back put 5200 over the screw and drilled a new hole next to it.