Looking for advice on how to remove broken screws shower drain grate plate

[Murphysf]

My shower stall is original from the mid 1950s.

The drain grate plate is just sitting on top of the drain without being attached with screws.

There are two old screws in the drain flange screw holes that seem to but cut off flush with the flange. This has been like this for about 20 years. See attached photos, 1 photo clearly shows what is left of one of the screws

I am finally getting around to try and correct it. I'd like to remove what is left of the screws and put in new screws to secure the drain grate plate.

I was thinking of soaking the screws with a penetrating oil like PB blaster or liquid wrench but then how to get them out?

Should I use a small easy out like the ones in this damaged screw extractor kit?

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B09C5MNHQY/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=A32RJLTHGPWLCM&psc=1

If I get the screws out I guess I might want to be prepared to chase the threads with a tap before I put in new screws.

Other ideas?

Thanks

 

[Griff Drew]

Most likely you will have to just drill the screws out versus using the screw extractor. I find they don't work or break off in the screw. Start with a small drill bit that you can ensure is centered on the screw and go one size bigger at a time. Even better if the drill bit has a pilot point.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Breplum]

drilling is hopeless as you won't be able to tap the new hole anyway unless you rig a short projection pipe tap.

 

[Murphysf]

drilling is hopeless as you won't be able to tap the new hole anyway unless you rig a short projection pipe tap.

I think I am going to get the easy out \extractor set and give it a try.

If I am successful with the easy out, would a regular tap work if I wanted to clean up and chase the threads? Or perhaps the threads will be ok and I won't have to do anything.

 

[Murphysf]

can anyone recommend the proper replacement screws? They look like they are size 8. I guess I want stainless steel screws?

 

[John Gayewski]

Left handed drill bit will probably get it out before the threads are drilled.

 

[John Gayewski]

Or this... https://www.mscdirect.com/product/d...zdIoUc2dKAofhyiY5BxoCaMAQAvD_BwE&gclsrc=aw.ds


Go to a hardware store and get the right screws. Stainless is probably the best option.

 

[Breplum]

standard taps have lead-in threads that are typically too long, bc the drain body threads are very short

 

[Murphysf]

standard taps have lead-in threads that are typically too long, bc the drain body threads are very short

ah so the space where the screw goes isn't a through hole?

 

[Breplum]

correct, just a short pocket

 

[Murphysf]

are the threads #8 - 32?