Disco 2 (but not Disco-specific): Removing bolloxed recessed screws

I have a brake light out so I bought a new bulb and set about removing the rear light cluster only to find that two of the four screw heads are ****ed. The screwdriver just spins in them. These are recessed into the light housing so I can't cut a slot into them.

Any bright ideas?

I haven't tried these myself, but just an idea.. http://www.transtools.co.uk/accesso.../silverline-damaged-screw-remover-set-5-piece

even cheaper... http://www.gearbest.com/other-tools/pp_216959.html?currency=GBP&gclid=CMnCod31xcsCFdUy0wodVIUJIQ

wattfield said:

even cheaper... http://www.gearbest.com/other-tools/pp_216959.html?currency=GBP&gclid=CMnCod31xcsCFdUy0wodVIUJIQ

Click to expand...

I had a knackered screw in the number plate light on my D1, and these got it out, no problem. I was actually looking for the wrapper to tell you what they were, as they were a present from my BIL - but couldn't find it!!
Thanks @wattfield for the link !!

I've had another method recommended which I think I'll try first.
My plan is to drill the head off the screws. Once the head is gone (and the other screws removed) I should just be able to lift the light housing off. Then I can take the remains of the screws out with grips.

If this doesn't work, I'll get some of these screw removers.

Thanks all for the advice so far.

Ohh, careful doing that, if you generate too much heat the lens will melt.
Sharp bit and slowly does it.

Use a left handed drill bit (turned anticlockwise of course). Quite often as soon as it bites it'll turn the screw out.

They're available from ebay etc and not too expensive.

I always try a small flat blade screwdriver first as they usually get enough grip to turn the screw.

That's what I like about tratters, just smash the lens orf wit big ommer, new one 99p or summit.

Flossie said:

That's what I like about tratters, just smash the lens orf wit big ommer, new one 99p or summit.

Click to expand...

I keep a few spare lenses in case a bulb blows

Drop of super glue can help keep screwdriver located and prevent rounding out the heads

I tried various hex/torx/flat tools (with and without rubber bands). I did get one of the two out but the other one refused to bite so the power tools came out...
I drilled the top off the screw and lifted the lens off and them removed what was left of the screw with grips.