Tool Recommendations for an extraction

[fred3]

I have an unusual situation that requires extracting an obstacle stuck in a machine.
The obstacle is a 1/2" x 1/8" dia sheet metal screw that is lodged sideways in the machine such that the head is visible but not very accessible and the screw end is more accessible.
There is some distance from the tool access point to the screw, so longer tools will be needed - maybe 9" or so.
If I can succeed in cutting the screw more or less in half then this may dislodge the rest. It seems like the best bet.
Things I've considered include:
- Use a 1/8" dia, long drill bit on a pistol-grip drill. The disadvantage is the possibility of breaking the bit.
- Use some kind of burr / end grinder or cutter on a similarly long shaft. But what is that called?
- Because the end of the screw may be pried or levered out, some kind of pick that is over 12" long and has a sharp end that's perpendicular to the shaft. The idea is to slide the end under the screw end and pry it out. But what is that called?
The access is such that I can't provide a picture. That would make the description much easier.
Any suggestions would be much appreciated!

 

[EmGo]

Do you have a body shop nearby ? I'd try those things that spot weld a piece of rod to the sheetmetal, then they bang on it backwards to pull out dents.

 

[eKretz]

I might just try a long piece of stock and use it like a pin punch to knock the screw loose, then fish it out with one of those extending magnet tools. If you can't push it, do the same but pull instead with a slide hammer.

 

[fred3]

I might just try a long piece of stock and use it like a pin punch to knock the screw loose, then fish it out with one of those extending magnet tools. If you can't push it, do the same but pull instead with a slide hammer.

Ah! "Slide Hammer" - thank you! Just the sort of idea I am looking for. Could work with the right tool end on it....

 

[eKretz]

Ah! "Slide Hammer" - thank you! Just the sort of idea I am looking for. Could work with the right tool end on it....

They make ends that can pinch, and even ones with a vise grip pliers attached. You might be able to just use a hook.

 

[EPAIII]

If you can wiggle the gears or pulleys, then perhaps a neo magnet on an extension may grab it and pull it out.


This photo shows my "dropped parts finder". A light has been added with an angle bracket, but it is removable. And a couple of neo magnets added on top of that provide a lot of lifting force. They can be used without the light/bracket.

I can't tell you how many parts I have retrieved with it.

Of course, if it is SS, brass, or aluminum, then forget it.

 

[Bill D]

They make mini gear pullers for pulling bearings that attach to the end of slide hammers. Martha Stewart would hot glue a rod to it. Super glue on a rod, jb weld on a rod. Get a stick welder and weld a rod to it. I bet there are critical moving parts that weld splatter and glue drops would not help.
A rod with a pilot hole in the end, screw it over the tip. This assumes the screw is jammed and will not simply roll.
Bill D

 

[MwTech Inc]

Machines come apart.........you probably spent time already messing with it, now your asking how and will spend more time messing with it.....

 

[Bill D]

Long reach needle nose pliers like these. I have a doctors piller that I use for pulling hair out of drain traps. In think they use it to get a sample for biopsy. Wait for Marcus to respond
Bill D.

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[technocrat]

I would try with wire. Something like mig wire. It may hook around the head or screw threads.

 

[fred3]

Thanks all!
One approach that could work would be a 1/4" cold chisel. But I'd need a few inches of extension. Maybe make one with a deep socket? Or..?
Also, I have a rotozip and a long grinding bit might help. I haven't found one yet....??

 

[jim rozen]

Aside: am I the only person who thinks 'home-made dentistry' whenever I see this thread title?