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Hi Brains trust
We need/want to remove the supporting post for a gate. However the screws will not budge and we've tried drilling them out. Over the years they have been painted over numerous times, any suggestions on the best way to remove post
Hello @handiher19
Thanks for sharing your question about removing stubborn bugle screws. If you've tried using the extractor sets and were not successful, odds are the screws have rusted firmly in place. One way to remove the post is to use a multi tool that has a plunge bit that can cut steel. Another method is to use a Trojan 450mm Wrecking Bar to lift the post out of its position.
Both methods have their drawbacks such as cutting the screws means that they will stay there for good, and you'll need to find another spot to screw in. Using the wrecking bar could strip the timber below it, so you must be prepared for the unexpected damage.
Let me call on our experienced members @Dave-1 and @Nailbag for their recommendations.
Eric
Good Morning @handiher19
Old screws can be a pain to remove 😕
Maybe you could use a saber saw down the middle to cut the bolts or as @EricL has suggested a plunge saw that can cut metal. Once you have cut them then the top will hopefully be able to be pry it off. Then gently pry the bottom piece off as well. You hopefully will be left with the base of the bolts sticking out. You then could slip a 20mm piece of timber next to a bolt and using a hammer to tap it over to form a right angle. This you could use to slowly turn out the old bolt. It may shear off as its old but thenits gone anyway 
If that seems a lot of work you could also use the saber saw or plunge saw and cut the bolt right next to the boards, you will probarly need to use some fill to path the boards back to looking the same.
Dave
Hi @handiher19
It will be important to avoid prying the timbers off without removing the screws or you will damage your weatherboards. Since, the screw heads are now well and truly damaged this is how I have tackled a similar project.
1. Use a reciprocating saw with a demolition blade and cut down between the two joining timbers and remove the top piece.
2. Use a 20mm hole saw right next to the body off each screw taking carte not to strike the meal screw. Take it slow and anticipate the breakthrough the 2nd timber for each hole.
3. This will allow you to remove the last timber.
4. You can pry the plugs off the screw stubs with an old chisel.
5. Try twisting the remaining screw body with vice grips. If that fails, cut them off flush to the weatherboard with an angle grinder and metal cutoff disk
Any surface damage to the weatherboard can be easily filled, sanded and painted.
Regards Nailbag.
