Lug nut stuck

[PapaMurph3218]

Very dumb question. I have a lug nut that is spinning free but won’t come off. It’s not one with a cover I don’t think because I have tried drilling it, using a chisel, using a punch, screwdriver. I have tried everything but no lucky. Has any had this issue or know anything

 

[Curious Hound]

Are you saying it seems like the stud is spinning with the nut? I would try to wedge something around the nut to keep it from spinning and drill out the center.

 

[PapaMurph3218]

It’s possible the stud is spinning with it idk. But I’ll try that thanks

 

[4x4junkie]

Maybe try pulling against the wheel while you're trying to unscrew it (might create enough friction to keep the stud from spinning)

You can also try striking the lug with a hammer in an attempt to break it off, though I would only suggest doing that if that wheel (and also your locking hub) has zero value (it will get all banged up). The stud will need replaced afterward if you do this.

Otherwise... What Eric said.

 

[Josh B]

I would try the hammer also, if I could get a good solid blow with one, the best scenario I know of with this is having a great deal of tension on it, and striking the nut while it has a serious load on it

 

[2011Supercab]

If it's not to late, see if you can turn it the other direction (tighten it) might be able to break the stud with enough leverage.

 

[pjtoledo]

get some industrial grade drill bits, common retail stuff is not good enough to drill nuts & lugs.
start with 1/8, finish with 7/16
if the nut still spins place a socket over it , hold with whatever you have, and run the bit thru it.
or maybe a gooseneck wrench.

that's a unique looking hub, really rusty center cap, or is it a spare wheel mount?

 

[Uncle Gump]

It looks like an auto hub...

That's a rough spot to be in.

 

[Uncle Gump]

I would probably take it out with torches.

And expect wheel damage...

 

[Curious Hound]

I like the idea about using a socket to hold it and drill through the center of the socket. Use a deep socket and grind some flats on the side so you can hold it with a open end wrench.

 

[superj]

the hole to the left of it is also torn up so i am not sure how that wheel will sit once you are done

 

[Josh B]

I think drilling is the best bet also, just drill slow, use oil, do not bust a bit

 

[Curious Hound]

the hole to the left of it is also torn up so i am not sure how that wheel will sit once you are done

You’re right. Looks to me like it’s been overtorqued a few times.

 

[Shran]

Betcha the stud is spinning. I would get some good drill bits and drill through the stud...keep going bigger until you basically drill the stud off or can break it off. That is your best chance to save the wheel. Stud hole in the rotor is probably hogged out too, you may need to weld the new stud to it if the rotor is still good.

I feel for you. I had this happen on a junker rig I was parting out and it is a son of a bitch to fix. If the wrenching gods are listening - I will take almost ANY other repair on before dealing with another one of those again.

 

[Josh B]

I just looked back and it looks like a bit is already in it?