I have a rebuilt starter, 2 new bolts, mounting bracket w/washer & nut ready to be installed. I need to get one broken starter bolt out first (nothing to grab ahold of with vise grips - below surface). I did forum search and it seems like the Drill-Out is the best way to go. I measured the bolt diameter as 3/8". What size Drill-Out should I use? I have been reading this forum for quite some time and have found it very helpful, thank you all for your valuable input on this forum.

use a smaller reverse drillbit and it will back it right out

IIRC, I used the smallest one, so as not to damage the hole for the bolt. Drill a tiny little starter hole with a regular bit, if you can without damaging anything.

I was also looking at the left-handed drill bits but was concerned about getting it centered. The drill-out seemed easier because it was advertized as self-centering. Do you think 5/16" or 1/4" would be the best size to use? I only want to purchase a single bit instead of a kit of 4 or 7 bits.

Your probably better off center punching it before you start.I also find that a magnet can unthread the broken piece out of there if it isn't stuck in there too badly.

Just remember to take your time and go easy on it.

Or you could take a punch and tap it around until it works loose.There are many ways to get it out.

I have been driving the sub for about 8-9 months with that bolt broken, then came the day I knew was going to happen, strange noise when trying to start, looked underneath to see starter housing had cracked & selenoid was broken loose. Had this on my to do list for about as many months. The nut & washer was not on the mounting bracket which caused the bolt to break off. So, I guess I need to find a center punch and a left-handed drill bit. I'll take it slow & easy cause at my age that is the onlyl way anything gets done anymore. Thanks for all the help. I will probably be a couple days till I get to this job, I will post back results.

The Alden drill-out comes with four different size "reverse" bits. Good investment, if you ask me...

Maybe you can even find one used on ebay or craigslist or something.

http://www.aldn.com/drillout/

i have used a punch with a reverse bit and they have always came out

Got lefthanded drill bit set for $10 at PoopBoys earlier today. Broke one bit (too small), ended up using 1/4" bit. The bolt was out in just a few minutes.

:beerchug:

Thank you forum for your help. Now, I need to get back under there and put the starter on.

:grd: