How to Keep Threaded Bolts From Rusting

Prevent rust or corrosion with anti-seize compound.

Bolts rust because of exposure to elements such as water or salt, or because dissimilar metals are threaded together. Anti-seize compounds painted on your bolts prevent rust and corrosion, and make it easier to thread a bolt into a part and remove the bolt later. A protective compound applied to the head of the bolt after it is installed helps prevent rust or corrosion forming on this more exposed part of the bolt. If the bolt already shows some rust, remove the rust before applying the anti-seize compound.

Things You'll Need

• Rust remover
• Stiff brush
• Anti-seize lubricant
• Socket and ratchet
• Cloth
• Corrosion protection compound.

Instructions

1. Apply the rust remover, if needed, as directed on the container. After cleaning it off the bolt, use a stiff brush to thoroughly clean the bolt.

2. Paint the bolt with a thin coat of anti-seize compound.

3. Insert the bolt into the part and thread it as tightly as you can by hand. Use a socket wrench and ratchet to finish tightening the bolt.

4. Wipe the bolt head and the area around it with a clean cloth to remove dirt and excess anti-seize compound.

5. Spray the head of the bolt with corrosion protection compound.

Tips & Warnings

• Anti-seize compound comes in different varieties. Select the correct one for the kind of bolt you are using.

References

• Meyer Plastics: Anti-Seize Compounds
• Permatex: Anti-Seize Lubricant
• Anti-Seize Technology: Anti-Seize Compounds
• Popular Mechanics: How to Clean an Engine -- Anti-Seize Compound Protects

Resources

• Auto Repair For Dummies: Deanna Sclar