Thread: What tools is needed for this screw or rivet?

Hi

your screw type is probably "Notched Security Screw", relatively common in industry and domestic appliances and devices.
Here are some examples from my "specials" box-

Attachment 173222

Sometimes mistakenly called "Snake-Eye", although some types of Snake-Eye drivers may fit.

The hand and bit drivers for Notched screws are rare; make one out of an old screwdriver, or search on web. Frequently these screws are used in a deep recess, so a modified old screwdriver is better than shorter bits.

There is normally a good reason why manufacturers use this type of screw, the safety of users, so caution required on whatever the device is.

This website is good for screw head type indentification -
Step 20: Tamper Proof Notched Spanner

WIHA make good squality long shank drivers for a lot of security screws, although not Notched. Their Notched short "bits" may work.
It is still easier to make your own.

cheerio, mike

I had the same problem and made that driver with a notch fom an old driver as said,took bit of trial and error but got to it in the end.Good luck
NRB

Hmmmm ....

I am having second thoughts as to whether the screws are actually technically called "Notched" tamper resistant screws.

They are relativley common, as per my own examples, but I cannot put a name to them.

cheerio, mike

You can get a set of hex bits that fit every available security screw ever used from Dick Smith or Jaycar, it even comes with a little rubber organiser and a magnetic bit holder

This won't help you remove old painted over flat blade screws installed in the 60's but it should open that oven

PIA screws

Hi

there's another security screw type which is a real PITA.

It is a pan or mushroom flat head with multiple small external lobes; sometimes used in consumer electrics. Similar to a Kinmar Security style head, but flatter and smaller.
It is also similar to those decorative plastic headed screws sometimes used to hold electrlcal face plates onto walll switches etc.
Dont know its fastener name, nor have I seen it on the web.


I think I needed more morning coffee before compiling my original reply, which is a bit misleading. Notched screws seem to be quite different to the original post, and to my screws. But a Snake Eye bit may still work, even though it is meant for a different style.
My Snake Eye bits are quite thick.
Make your own.

Those multi bit kits help quite a lot, but dont have all the answers.
I have three kits.
I still have to occasionally make bits (tri-lobular etc) and modify old screwdrivers.

You can also remove some of these problem screws with special end gripping pliers, made for removing screws with damaged heads, but only if the screw is not deep recessed. (Fujiya Screw Removing Plier, Jaycar cat TH-2330 et al),


cheerio, mike