Help need removing grip screws

[Mike1911]

I can't get two grip screws removed, they won't budge. Any tips on what to do? I tried wd-40 and using a hair dryer set on hot with no luck. This is on my 1911 Commemorative.

Thanks

 

[Another_David]

Do you have a soldering iron handy? Let it heat up then touch the screw head to get it hot. Using just the right screwdriver helps too of course. You can get a soldering cheap--around $10 maybe.

...and remember lefty loosey

 

[MA_Shooter]

Although it's counter-intuitive, sometimes you can break the screw (or nut) loose by actually tightening it up a bit. This has worked for me in the past. Not too much though or your could strip the threads.

 

[Rob Boudrie]

You could put a drop or two of liquid wrench on the threads from inside the mag tunnel and try again tomorrow.

 

[economist]

Using just the right screwdriver helps too of course.

This is key. If this is a slotted screw head you want a hollow ground driver (kits available from Brownells). Then it's just a matter of torque.

 

[MisterHappy]

WD-40 is not a penetrating oil ( A bike mechanic buddy had horror stories about how poorly it works on bikes) - the liquid wrench is the thing to use, or another "special" penetrating oil.

And use the "correct" screwdriver - a marred screwhead is forever. A while back there was a thread about screwdriver sets - bottom line was that an expensive set was cheap insurance....

 

[yanici]

You could put a drop or two of liquid wrench on the threads from inside the mag tunnel and try again tomorrow.

What he said. Get any good penetrating oil. I'm old school and use Marvels Mystery Oil.

 

[JohnFH]

Use the right size screw driver and tap the end with a hammer while turning.

 

[richc]

Kroil seems to work magic for things like this. I have some if you need it.

 

[yanici]

Gotta add that if someone used the red Loctite you'll probably need to use heat.

 

[Acme.Armament]

You could put a drop or two of liquid wrench on the threads from inside the mag tunnel and try again tomorrow.

What he said. Get any good penetrating oil. I'm old school and use Marvels Mystery Oil.

What these folks have said.
I only use and sell Kano Kroil.Nicole just used it to clean her 1911 the first time and is now a believer. It will get into the smallest opening and not damage your grips.

 

[Mike1911]

Thanks for all the advice! A friend came over and had the screws off in 10 seconds flat. Good old muscles did the trick. It's tough when ya get old.

 

[PSS]

PB Blaster has never let me down.