How to Remove Rusted Stainless Steel Bolts

Although it seldom occurs, stainless steel can become rusted.

While stainless steel can stain, it's much more difficult for it to rust. Yet if dirt, oil and dust accumulate on a stainless steel bolt for a long period of time, its natural protection against rust (a layer of chromium oxide) will begin to diminish, causing oxidation. If this has happened to one of your bolts, you'll need a combination of strength and penetrating lubricants.

Things You'll Need

• Steel brush
• WD-40
• Crescent wrench
• Penetrating oil
• Breaker bar
• Gloves
• Hacksaw (optional)

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Instructions

1. Use a wire brush to remove as much of the rust as you can. While it's not recommended for normal cleaning of stainless steel, you can use a wire brush when removing a rusted bolt.

2. Spray a generous amount of WD-40 onto the bolt and let it sit for several minutes.

3. Put your crescent wrench around the bolt and turn it counterclockwise. If the bolt won't budge, move on to the next step.

4. Apply a generous amount of penetrating oil such as PB Penetrating Catalyst, CRC 5-56 or Liquid Wrench. Allow the oil to sit for several minutes before attempting to remove the bolt with the crescent wrench. If the bolt is still stuck, continue on to the next step.

5. Use a breaker bar to gain more leverage and get more muscle behind the stuck bolt. Wear gloves, as you'll need to get a good grip. Twist counterclockwise and try to budge the bolt. Repeat the process for any remaining rusted bolts.

Tips & Warnings

• If all else fails, you may need to use a hacksaw to cut through the bolt.

References

• Popular Mechanics: How to Free a Rusted Bolt
• Stainless Steel Information Center: The Care and Cleaning of Stainless Steel (pdf)