How to Remove Stuck Bolts

Removing a stuck bolt can be very challenging. This is because a stuck bolt is usually stuck due to rust or corrosion. Moisture and road salt (if you live in northern climates, states use salt to de-ice the roads in the winter) are the two main contributors to bolts becoming seized. To remove them, you'll need to use a process involving a corrosion inhibitor to break the bolt free so that you can remove it.

Things You'll Need

• Penetrating oil
• Socket wrench
• Socket set

Instructions

1. Spray the bolt head with penetrating oil. Make sure that you get the penetrating oil on the mating surface where the bolt head makes contact with the surface it is bolted to.

2. Wait 15 minutes and check the bolt. The lubricating oil should be mostly dry. If it is not, wait until it dries. Then, apply a second coating of the oil. Soak the bolt in lubricating oil until the oil is no longer being absorbed into the threads of the bolt.

3. Fit the appropriate-sized socket over the bolt head. You should use a six-point socket for maximum grip on the bolt head. Then, turn the socket and bolt head counterclockwise with a socket wrench.

4. Repeat steps 1-3 if the bolt does not initially break free. Stuck bolts don't always come free the first time.

Tips & Warnings

• Be careful when applying torque to the bolt head. If it is especially rusty, there is always the chance that you will snap the bolt head off the end of the bolt. Pay attention to bolt-head flexing. This is when the bolt wrench appears to be moving slightly, but the bolt is not actually turning. Bolt-head flexing is a sign that the head is ready to break off the end of the bolt.

References

• Automotive Tools Manual: Guide to Buying and Using Automotive Tools; Thomson Delmar Learning; 1999