Sometimes the simplest task turns into a project. Replacing worn studs in an exhaust manifold sounded simple. A little penetrating oil, a little heat, a little twist with the vice grips, a little SNAP. Crap! (similar to the word I used) Well, now I will have to drill and tap the hole. Not a big deal. I have all the stuff... First the pilot hole. SNAP! CRAP! Now I have a pilot bit busted off in the pilot hole! ( pilot error?) Have you ever tried to drill a drill bit with a drill bit?
After giving the matter some thought, I decided to try heating the manifold/stud/broken bit until it was cherry red and letting it cool slowly. It worked great! The now annealed pilot bit drilled out almost like the soft steel it was buried in. Life is good at Easy Street Rods.
John
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