Allen Wrench?

Question

I have a bolt that I need removed, and it looks like I need an Allen Wrench to do it. Problem is, instead of an "open" head that the allen wrench would fit in, there is a small metal circle in the middle. I assume I need an Allen Wrench with a hole in the middle then? Where would I go about finding one of those?

Answer 1

Usually that type bolt is in placeso as not to be removed by just anyone. Make sure you really need to remove it and that you have the authority to do so.

The wrench you will need is a Tamper proof star wrench or Tamper Proof Hex Wrench

http://www.gsmserver.com/items/item_deta...

Answer 2

I'd be really surprised to find these special allen wrenches at any of the stores previously mentioned.  As a couple of the folks have mentioned, they are used a security measure, like a padlock, to keep unauthorized folks out of an area where they shouldn't be, and quite possibly could get injured from.   I have a complete set of these tools as I own and operate a small and major appliance repair business, but I had to order mine from a parts supplier in another state and prove to them that I was really in business.  Good luck.  It's really difficult to drill these things out, as they are case hardened bolts.

Answer 3

That's an anti-tamper bolt, to keep unauthorized people from getting into something they shouldnt, heheheh.

Opening it could void any warranty you may have on whatever it is you are trying to get into.

If you had bothered to tell us what it is, we'd have a better idea of where you should go to find the proprietary tool... but the best guess, would be an auto parts store, Lowe's, or perhaps Sears.  I wouldnt be surprised tho, if it has to be special ordered.

Some lock companies use anti-tamper bolts of this type on their electronic locks... you'd need to order the tool from the manufacturer.

Your other choice is to try to drill it out, and use a s***w extractor.  The bolt would then have to be replaced, of course.

Good Luck

Answer 4

that is a secure allen key, they dont always have them at lowes, maybe like a wholesale tool store, they are that way for tamperproofing

Answer 5

Lowe's or maybe a car parts store. You didn't say what the bolt was in that it needed to be removed from.

Answer 6

this is a security bolt try fastenal.com for the tool

Answer 7

Go to a tool store.  They will know what your looking for.  A part store probably will as well.

Answer 8

use a small punch and tip the little pin over slightly the top of the bolt or s***w is hardened and it will usually break off directly on occasion you will need to tip it the other way. once it has broken off you can use a standard allen or torks bit.