How to remove wall anchor from hollow core door?

jarko

I needed to hang a fixture to the back of a hollow core internal door, so I purchased the following hollow wall anchors:

https://www.bunnings.com.au/ramset-m4-x-0-5mm-hollow-wall-anchor-with-hook-2-pack_p2260541

I followed the instructions (or so I thought) and the first anchor (top in the image below) installed without an issue, however I must have overdriven the second anchor (bottom in the image below) and now I can no longer remove the screw:

The screw spins in place, and I don't know how to remove the anchor without making a mess of the existing door (and ideally without pushing something into the door which will rattle every time it is opened and closed).

I'm unable to hang the fixture over the top as the screw protrudes too far from the face of the door.

Can someone offer any advice on how I can remove the anchor?

I've seen some videos on YouTube, but the solutions are for walls, not hollow core doors.

EricL

Hello @jarko 

Thanks for sharing your question about how to remove a stuck wall anchor from your door. 

I propose trying this technique, using ordinary pliers or long nose pliers, I suggest holding the outside flange of the wall anchor to prevent it from spinning. Once you have a good grip on the flange you can then use your Philips screwdriver to remove the screw. 

Please keep in mind that the anchor is now fully open and can't be removed. The only way to take the body of the anchor out is to bend the flange until it snaps off. However, this will damage your door, so I suggest leaving it in. With the screw taken out you should now have space to hang your fixture.

If you need further assistance, please let me know.

Eric