Worn star bolt on standard alloy wheel security cap

[meljames24]

Hi all, any advice on getting my wheel off? The star bolt which secures the cap seems to have had its tines worn off just a little too much to get enough grip with the key.

Its had a pint of WD and Ive hammered the key in before turning to try and get some purchase, but no luck yet. I've had two heavy handed suggestions: 1) Chisel a slot in the bolt so a flat key can be used 2) drill the bolt out.

I'd rather try some more subtle things first, so any ideas?

Ta,
Mel.

[richard s]

have a look in machine mart im sure they do a tool that is for removing wheel locknuts

[rubjonny]

i believe he means the wee bolt that holds the centre cap on. if so you dont have much choice but to drill it out, could try a larger spline bit tapped in with a hammer

[meljames24]

Thanks for that, I thought drilling might be the only option. And just to correct you, I'm a actually a she.
Melanie

[rubjonny]

ah sorry about that!
bit dagerous to declare you are a female mk2 owner on vw forums

[Neo Badness]

ah sorry about that!
bit dagerous to declare you are a female mk2 owner on vw forums

 
Yup, better keep your nerd repellent at the ready...

You could try using a dremmel to put a groove in the bolt to allow a flat bladed screwdriver to be used. Bit kinder than a chisel/large persuading stick... failing that I'd just drill it out and replace the bolt

[Ben Lessani]

.... * is waiting to see how long it is before someone asks for pics *