Whenever I can get my old TPS off (having trouble with the screws like everyone does), I'd like to replace them with bolts. But what size are they?

The screw head is galled, but was a Phillips head. I can't take the screw to a store to match them since I can't get them off in the first place. And I don't just want to buy the OEM screws from the dealer because they suck.

And any tips for getting them off? I tried using a vice grip, but it still won't budge and there is no room to fit between the screw and the TPS body itself! I tried needle nose pliers. I also tried to hammer a 5mm socket on to the screw head, but there is no room for a hammer under there! (the hammer a smaller socket is better known as the way to remove wheel locks when you lost the key)

Do you know of any thin vice grips that can fit between the TPS and the screw that you actually have room to turn it?

 

M10 (base) x 0.7 (thread) x 20mm (length)

Use a hex headed bolt

 

If you've got a Dremel or similar tool you can carefully grind the bolt heads off with one of the cylindrical grinding stones.



Then the TPS can be removed and you'll be left with two "posts" that can be gripped with a vice grip.

My recommendation would be either a cap head or a button head.





... and if you end up using stainless, don't forget to also use a small bit of anti-seize.

 

I saw these type screws at the hardware store. not sure if it's the same Thread Pitch

 

Here's a thread that I posted some time ago on this topic. I get Hillman brand stainless screws at Ace Hardware or Lowes.

https://maxima.org/forums/4th-genera...under-5-a.html