Removing incorrect bolt from gas tank

[sthoward]

Hi KDXers

the previous owner replaced one of the bolts holding the shroud to the gas tank, but he used a bolt that was too big and the wrong thread. It is jammed in there pretty good and when I try to remove it, the metal insert embedded in the tank just spins. Does anyone have a clever way to hold the insert steady while removing the bolt? I tried vise grips and pliers, but there isn't enough space around the insert to grab on to it.

[sthoward]

Here is the problem bolt:

[sarrant]

Once the insert is spinning, you're just going to need to spin it out until it breaks free of the plastic, and epoxy a new one in place.

[K50X200]

http://www.kdxrider.net/forums/viewtopi ... sert#p6063

[canamfan]

Like they say spin it till it gets hot enough the nut pulls out or heat it with a heat gun. (don't use an open flame) Get a new nut and use a soldering iron to soften the plastic Push the nut in place and use the iron to push the hot plastic around the nut. Worked for me.

[doakley]

I used an electric impact wrench to solve a similar problem on mine. Be sure to put anti-seize on the replacement bolt.

[sthoward]

Quick update - heated the bolt with a heat gun, bolt and insert came out easily. Removed the bolt from the insert, then heated it again with the heat gun and got it back in the tank. All fixed now. Thanks all for your help on this!