Anyone who has ever worked on cars, machinery, or projects at home is familiar with the frustration of stubborn bolts that refuse to move. Whether it’s rust, corrosion, or just years of wear and tear, these hardened bolts can set back your work — and leave you feeling demoralized. Fortunately, there are several mechanical devices designed specifically to deal with these stubborn fasteners. Here, we’ll delve into the tools that can do the heavy lifting for you.
Impact Wrench
The impact wrench is one of the most useful tools in a mechanic’s toolbox. This is a heavy-duty tool that’s great for loosening stubborn bolts that simply won’t budge or are over-tightened. The impact wrench provides high torque in a quick burst so that it can break the bond between the bolt and the surrounding material.
There are pneumatic (air-powered) and electric types, with pros and cons to both. Pneumatic models are usually stronger and used in professional situations, while electric models are more practical in the home and also lighter and more versatile.
When selecting an impact wrench, you’ll need to keep in mind both the size and type of bolt you’re working with. Higher torque ratings equal more power to help you loosen even the stubbornest of bolts.
Breaker Bar
If you’re more hands-on, a breaker bar is a mechanic’s tool that provides extra leverage to loosen stuck bolts. A breaker bar is a long-handled wrench that lacks a ratcheting mechanism. The bar is longer, providing more leverage to push against a bolt. This, of course, means that you can manipulate the leverage a little so that you can grip the bolt tighter, making it easier to break.
Breaker bars are available in different lengths; the longer breaker bars are required for larger bolts and/or more resistance. Longer bars give you more leverage but are also bulkier and harder to navigate in, so keep that in mind when picking your tool.
Penetrating Oil
Not all stubborn bolts give up to brute force. For these types of stubborn fasteners, penetrating oil can be a real game-changer. Penetrating oils, such as WD-40 or PB Blaste, work at creeping into the threads of the bolt and breaking down rust and corrosion. Just mist the oil on the bolt, wait a couple of minutes, and then try loosening the bolt with your other tools.
Penetrating oil does an excellent job on seasoned bolts when used with the mechanic’s tools, such as a breaker bar or impact wrench. For best results, allow the oil to seep into the bolt, and reapply it if needed.
Bolt Extractor Set
If nothing else works, a bolt extractor set will be your best bet. They are specialized for extracting damaged or stripped bolts when traditional wrenches or sockets can no longer grip the bolt. Bolt extractors have spiral-cut edges that bite into the sides of a bolt, enabling you to take it out without hurting the surrounding material.
Most bolt extractor sets come with a variety of sizes to fit different bolt heads. Depending on how stubborn the bolt is, they can be used with a ratchet wrench or an impact wrench. When picking a bolt extractor, ensure it is constructed out of durable materials—like high-carbon steel—for long, wear-free use.
Heat
Sometimes heat is the secret to getting rusty bolts loose. This process involves heating the bolt enough for it to expand, separating the bolt and the material. This is done using a heat gun or a propane torch. Use heat for several minutes then attempt to loosen the bolt with your breaker bar or impact wrench.
Use heat carefully, especially on any plastic or rubber pieces that might get damaged. When working with heat, always wear protective gloves and goggles and work in a well-ventilated area.
Conclusion
No one wants to work with rusted bolts, but the right mechanic’s tools can make what seems like an impossible job much easier. Impact wrenches, breaker bars, penetrating oils, bolt extractors, and heat are all great options to set those hard-to-move bolts free. If you invest in quality tools and use a considered approach, you’ll save yourself a world of time and trouble on your next project. Whether you’re a professional mechanic or a DIY weekend warrior, these tools come in handy for breaking loose even the most stubborn fasteners.
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