In a message dated 4/7/03 12:14:12 PM, sendmeanemail@EARTHLINK.NET writes:

<< Has anyone used that socket that Sears sells for rounded bolts? >>

I've used hex fastener extractors, but not from Sears, and they worked quite
well.  I don't know if I would bother with what Sears has to offer these
days.  The ones I used were very expensive and rightly so because they are
precisely made from the highest quality steel which is heat treated
perfectly.  Anyway, since the exhaust nuts and capscrew heads on your average
Vanagoon are wasted away to some indeterminate degree rather than merely
rounded on the corners, I think you would have to be lucky to find an
extractor which fits properly.  You can't just buy an extractor sized for a
rounded 13 mm hex and expect it to work.  You could buy a set with the hopes
that one of the smaller sizes might drive on well enough to do the job, as
long as you are willing to cough up a couple of bills for the set rather than
the $30-$40 one costs.

If you want to be certain of getting it off, just put on some grinding
goggles and follow Mr. Fred's advise.  A jab saw or even a bare hacksaw blade
with a portion wrapped with tape to form a hand grip might also prove to be
useful.  Unless you know how to properly dress a cold chisel, it is best to
leave it in the tool cabinet.

On, by the way, long but clever screen name.  When spoken, is the phrasing
"send me an email" or "send mean email"?  Because of my dubious stature on
this list, I would like to appropriate the latter if it not the one you use.

George