At one time or another, everyone has faced a stubborn bolt that refuses to budge, no matter how much pressure is put on it. It takes more than muscle power to loosen these fasteners without breaking them.
Melted Candle Wax on a Hot Bolt
One tried and true method is heat and candle wax. Use a small propane torch to heat the bolt until it is hot enough to melt candle wax. Put a candle on top of the bolt so the bolt liquefies some of the wax. The heat will pull the liquid wax down onto the threads of the bolt. Wait until the bolt cools off a bit, then use a wrench to loosen it. Before using this method, make sure there are no flammable materials near by, or anything that will be damaged by the heat.
Buy a Rust Penetrating Liquid
In places where heat is not a good idea, chemicals can be used to penetrate the rust. Every handy person has a favorite product, but some of the most commonly used compounds are WD-40, hydrogen peroxide, penetrating oil, and Diet Coke. Yes, Diet Coke. Any cola product will work, but Diet Coke contains the most phosphoric acid, which is the active rust-eating ingredient.
Build a Cup to Contain the Penetrating Liquid Over the Bolt Head
All of the liquid products listed above take time to work their magic, so use window putty, or chlld's modeling clay to build a small cup around the bolt. Press the putty down firmly and use plenty, especially at the base, so the cup will not leak when liquid is added. Fill the cup with one of the products listed listed above, then go away for a while and let the liquid work. After a few hours, check to see if the bolt can be moved. If the fastener still will not budge, use a rag to mop up whatever liquid is left in the bowl, give the bolt a whack with a hammer to jolt the metal a bit, then refill the putty cup with the chosen liquid.
Use Good Tools
When trying to remove a reluctant bolt, always use a good socket wrench with as much leverage as space will allow. Firmly seat the wrench over the bolt, and try to keep the wrench as far down on the bolt head as possible. The goal is to keep from chewing up or round off the head of the bolt. If the head of the bolt is destroyed, it will have to be drilled out.
With persistence and care, rusty bolts can be removed. Do not reuse the rusty bolt when putting everything back together. Buy a new bolt, and coat it lightly with petroleum jelly to help prevent rust from forming.
 |
