How to Remove Rusted Lag Bolts

Removing a rusted lag bolt isn't as difficult as you might think.

Lag bolts are long bolts that have a variety of applications. Lag bolts or lag screws have a hex head and sometimes are cut on the top of the head to accommodate a screwdriver. When your lag screw or lag bolt becomes rusty and you need to remove it, you'll need to use a bolt extractor kit. An easy-to-use bolt extractor kit consists of special sockets that have spiral teeth inside the socket. These teeth grab onto the head of the bolt and help you remove the bolt.

Things You'll Need

• Penetrating oil
• Bolt extractor kit
• Socket wrench
• Rubber mallet

Instructions

1. Spray in and around the head of the lag bolt head with penetrating oil to help dissolve some of the rust and make the lag bolt easier to remove. You may need to do this several times, waiting 10 to 15 minutes between each application of penetrating oil.

2. Get the correct fitment for the bolt extractor socket. Find a socket in your bolt extractor kit that is about the same size as the hex head on the lag bolt you are trying to remove.

3. Tap the socket over the head of the bolt using a rubber mallet. Make sure that the socket fits snug over the rusted bolt because when you remove it, there is a good chance that the extractor will ruin the bolt head, making it unusable.

4. Turn the socket and bolt counterclockwise with a socket wrench to remove the bolt.

References

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