But wait! Before launching your wrench into the neighbor’s bushes, there are ways to remove that stripped or broken bolt. Please read on.
How to Remove a Rusted Bolt
Rusty bolts are a common sight, especially for those who spend their working days outdoors. The heads on machine bolts can get oxidized to the point where you can’t tell they’re there. The nuts securing carriage bolts can rust, too, making it impossible to remove them. The rust can freeze the bolt in place or degrade the shape of the bolt head or the nut holding the bolt. If you try to back the bolt or nut out with a wrench, the wrench won’t grip the hex head, making it difficult (if not impossible) to remove.
What You’ll Need:
Penetrating oil Socket wrench set Box-end wrenches Hammer Locking pliers Hacksaw Oscillating multitool Reciprocating saw
Steps:
Removing a Rusted Nut
In the case of a rusted nut, the last chance of removal is to saw it off. Fit it with a metal cutting blade if you have an oscillating multi-tool or a reciprocating saw. (A slower, but by no means less effective, the method uses a hacksaw.) You can cut the sides off the nut or cut across the base, right through the bolt. There’s always an opportunity to spend money on tools, and bolt removal is no exception. If you have more than a couple of rusted bolts in your life, then you might want to invest in a bolt extractor set. They range in price from $25 to more than $200 and feature specially designed sockets that grip rusted bolt heads so they can be removed.
How to Remove a Broken Bolt
Occasionally, the head snaps off when you attempt to remove a rusted bolt, leaving the decapitated body inside the threads. There are a couple of removal options. The first is to drill it out.
What You’ll Need:
Corded or cordless drill Drill bits Machine oil Center punch Hammer Properly sized bolt extractor
