How To Unstick Rusted Nuts and Bolts
- March 12, 2009
- 11,082 Views
from
Keith Heyward
(and 3 others) Subscribe
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Writer
JoAnna_Zulli
- Actress Lauren Fisher
-
Editor/Videographer
Keith Heyward
Never be frustrated by a rusted nut and bolt again with this foolproof removal method.
You Will Need
- A wire brush
- A hammer
- WD-40
- A wrench
- Safety goggles
- A nut-splitter
- A small blowtorch
Step 1: Brush off
Loosen as much rust as possible off the nut with a wire brush.
Step 2: Tap
Tap the sides of the nut with a hammer to help the rust separate and fall off.
Step 3: Apply heat
Apply heat to the side of the nut for about a minute.
A small, narrowly directed propane torch—one made especially for small jobs—will work best for this job, but be careful.
Step 4: Spray lubricant
When the bolt is cool enough to touch, spray WD-40 on and around the nut and bolt.
Step 5: Tap
Tap the end of the bolt with a hammer to loosen the threads and allow the oil to penetrate.
Step 6: Loosen
Wait another minute or so for the oil to work, and then use your wrench to loosen.
It sometimes helps to tighten the nut slightly and then try loosening it again.
Step 7: Split it
If all else fails, buy a nut splitter and crack that sucker in half. Always wear safety goggles when using a splitter.
Painting an object prevents rust from forming by blocking water and air from reaching the iron or steel surface.
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Comments (1)
Excellent casting choice! Love when ladies wear the safety goggles in the family.
about 1 year ago by HeatherM
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