Running Board - Stripped Bolt - what to do?

[MilliM]

As I was uninstalling one of the bolts to install my running boards it simply kept on twisting (was going lefty loosely the whole time). In order to get it to bite I put some angled pressure on it, but now it’s coming out crooked. Any thoughts/suggestions. Assuming I’ll strip the heck out of it if I continue, but not sure what my options are.

Of course this is the second side of the install, so I’m kind of pregnant with the project.

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[MilliM]

Btw, video is from before I got it to bite.

 

[Proxy]

Can you feel anything on the other side if there is access?

 

[MilliM]

There wasn’t. I forced it out and this is what it looked like. Good news is it went back in and it’s similarly loose as before. The TP55 is nice and tight so hoping it all works out ok.

 

[Proxy]

If it were my vehicle I would get a replacement bolt from a hardware store. Also recommend matching the bolt strength (head stamp on the bolt)

 

[MilliM]

If it were my vehicle I would get a replacement bolt from a hardware store. Also recommend matching the bolt strength (head stamp on the bolt)

Great suggestion. Also have a service center nearby, so I’ll swing by and see whether they’ll sell me one.

 

[Magicbus]

Before I stuck a bolt back in the hole I would think about running a tap in there first to get things lined up properly. Plus you might learn if you need to go a size larger.

 

[R1Thor]

Before I stuck a bolt back in the hole I would think about running a tap in there first to get things lined up properly. Plus you might learn if you need to go a size larger.

Or if it needs a true repair, such as a helicoil or other type of threaded insert. Otherwise, you're potentially inviting even bigger headaches in the future.

I'd honestly leave this bolt out entirely if you're unwilling to properly fix it. Just my .02 (as someone who has stripped out MANY bolts)

 

[punjabi]

these bolts are problem. during my running board installed process these snapped and from the strain on washer it looked like they were over torqued.
i was able to find replacements at auto parts shop. you may want to do that.
Rivian should seriously consider adding running board as accessories. not everyone who drive their truck is tall or can jump in and out of truck.

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