Wrong screw stuck

[TimFitz]

Hi

Can anyone help me with this problem? I have a size 12 american pocket watch that has what appears to be the wrong screw in the nickle  barrel plate. I need to remove it. It won't turn left or right, the head doesn't protrude far enough to grab it with a pin vice.

[oldhippy]

Alum powder is what most watchakers use.

[vinn3]

penitrating oil and heat.   take your time.  vin

[TimFitz]

My problem is the screw has apparently the wrong threads and was forced in. Will Alum or penetrating oil work?

[oldhippy]

Alum will dissolve the screw. Penetrating oil really is best used if the screw was rusted in.   

[TimFitz]

Because the screw is the wrong size it is keeping the barrel bridge connected to the bottom plate?

[clockboy]

i have not had a lot of luck with Alum. Can it be drilled out or is it too small. A picture could be helpful.

[SSTEEL]

13 hours ago, clockboy said:

i have not had a lot of luck with Alum. Can it be drilled out or is it too small. A picture could be helpful.

Are you making sure to heat the dissolved Alum powder?  Works best to keep it heated.  Ideal mixture is 4 tablespoons to a cup  of water.

[SSTEEL]

Just an heads up, if you struggle to find Alum, then you can also use Vinegar, Malt vinegar works, and you don't have to heat it either.