'07 Sport Tube Rail Fastener Problem

[Bluesky 07]

Just wondering if anyone has run into this issue. I was removing these faded plastic pieces to paint them and everything went fine except for this one screw/bolt.

It will turn freely in either direction but will not come out or loosen. Usually, when the problem is that something is stripped, you can turn it while gently applying upward pressure or just get a hold of it and pull up and it will come out. This thing is stuck tight even though it will turn, which doesn't make sense to me.

Any insight or advice will be much appreciated.

Before anyone suggests it, I have considered just removing the rails. Going to wait to see how they look after being refreshed before making up my mind. If all else fails, I will just mask off this one and paint it on the rail.

 

[calvinv8sr5]

The nutsert that's behind it is probably stripped

live action!!

 

[Bluesky 07]

Just seems odd that it won't simply come out if that's the case. I've just removed the rails for now. I like both looks and will end up masking this piece in place to paint it 'cause I don't want to force it and break something.

Thanks for responding.