tips to loosen door strike posts needed

Bob Taylor · 01-20-2013, 06:28 PM

HI VMF Team!
I need to adjust the door strike posts that the door latch grabs onto that is bolted to the body with 2 huge philip style screws. I can't get them to budge. Does anybody got any magic tips to break them loose. I am afraid that I could strip out the head if I am not careful.

carlite65 · 01-20-2013, 06:30 PM

i have used a hand impact driver for just that task.

Bob Taylor · 01-20-2013, 06:34 PM

not sure what you mean by a hand impact driver, that is not the same as an impact wrench?

SunnDogg · 01-20-2013, 06:36 PM

Try Sears or one of the local auto parts stores for an impact screwdriver. Harbor Freight has them for under $10.

finbar · 01-20-2013, 06:37 PM

It's the one you hit with a hammer.

Bob Taylor · 01-20-2013, 06:49 PM

so you wack the end of the tool with a hammer? I will have to head over to Harbor Freight.

Caper50 · 01-20-2013, 07:35 PM

Just did mine, you'll definitely need the impact. They usually have an arrow indicating left or right, remember righty tighty, lefty loosey...couldn't resist.

slim · 01-20-2013, 07:53 PM

Also whamy bamy!

bryancobb · 01-20-2013, 08:12 PM

You really need a friend to hold a chunk of steel or body-dolly behind it as you whack the impact driver. The jamb is pretty thin sheet metal and that whacking makes a LOT of force.

finbar · 01-20-2013, 08:28 PM

A dry run on a lesser part would give you a feel of how the tool works.

The heads may be pozidriv, using a phillips driver will cam out and damage the head.

Maxum96 · 01-20-2013, 09:17 PM

I have the Craftsman one. Nice piece and not expensive at $24.99

thespazardman · 01-20-2013, 10:49 PM

Agree with others. You NEED an impact driver, works great.

Craftsman Impact Driver - Tools - Mechanics & Auto Tools - Automotive Specialty Tools

ScottsGT · 01-20-2013, 10:50 PM

Even a large Phillips screwdriver and a hammer will do the trick sometimes. Put twisting force on the screw and start tapping firmly on the back of the handle. Sometimes just the shock will break it loose.

WiseBeyondYears · 01-20-2013, 11:43 PM

Good to know this was going to be one of my next mini projects. Does anyone have a link to the harbor freight impact driver? I searched but couldn't find one. You guys think an 18v impact gun would work?

bartl · 01-21-2013, 12:31 AM

I have impact bits in 1/2" drive that I put on my cordless impact wrench. Works great and no busted thumbnails.