Help! Broken transmission pan bolt

[Zulu95]

I broke an extractor trying to remove a broken bolt once. Had to resort to locking grip wrench after removing the pump I was installing. Like I said nothing comes easy and I have to fight but when I finish I have a glow about me of satisfaction.
I miss doing all my own work but age and health have got in the way.

[crystalworks]

Seems there was a database error and xoutpost lost a day of posts. I'll reiterate what others and I suggested.

Definitely try to use a left handed bit and extractor before removing the pan as suggested. If that fails then drop the pan as you said there's no fluid in the trans yet. I've made the mistake of using a harbor freight torque wrench as well and experienced the same result you did. Home Depot carries a 1/4" drive inch/lb torque wrench for ~$70 that I trust. Made by husky and I've used it many times now for different things including sensitive ones like trans bolts and aluminum valve cover bolts. No issues yet. You will likely need a new set of bolts as I would not trust that some of the ones on there now weren't over torqued by the harbor freight wrench.

[13brian]

Great suggestions above for sure. Am with ard and crystal extract in place, otherwise remove pan then extract. Be VERY happy bolt broke and hole not stripped. Buy or borrow better torque wrench. Get PROPERbolt for replacement = correct metal/material, strength, etc.