Small Engines (Lawn Mowers, etc.): Bolt broke off, broken bolt, broken bolts

Question
I have a troy bilt 5.5 160cc with a Honda motor and the blade came loose and I did not know it and I was cutting my grass and the blade shot out the side and when it did that it broke the bolt off up inside the shaft it goes into. How do I get the broken bolt out of the shaft or can I and will I be able to get a new one for it?

Answer
You can use an easy-out to remove the broke bolt.  You will have to drill the broken bolt to use the easy-out.  The blade bolt is very hard and difficult to drill.  Often times is to better to remove the enigne and take it to a machine shop and have them remove the broke bolt.  They have better tools and more experince dealing with broken bolts.

You will have to buy the easy-out/screw extractor and drill bits.  You can purchase left handed drill bits which may remove the broke bolt if it is lose.

Make sure you drain the gas, and OIL, remove the spark plug before performing any work on the engine.
Let me know if this helps or if you have any other questions.
Eric