How to loosen rusted bolts

If a bolt is exposed to moisture and humid weather for long periods of time, it will, unfortunately, start to rust. Moreover, the corrosion can compromise the metal bolt, causing it to seize up.  Follow this handy guide for step-by-step tips on how to loosen rusted bolts and remove them, and you’ll never have to fear them again!

Things you will need

    penetrant front straw up

  • WD-40 Specialist® Fast Release Penetrant Spray

  • Hammer

  • Pliers

  • Cloth or paper towels

Step 1

Scrape away visible rust

To loosen rusted bolts, first, begin by taking a sturdy wire brush and remove as much visible rust from the bolt as you can. Scraping away the excess rust will give you a better grip, and make it easier for you to loosen the bolt. Target the head of the bolt and the threading.

Step 2

Apply the lubricant spray

Then, take a can of WD-40 Specialist Penetrant Spray. This product specifically targets corroded and rusted components, and helps to loosen them easily. Additionally, it also comes with a Spray2Ways technology, allowing you to decide between using the wide spray nozzle, or the precise straw applicator.

Spray directly on to the rusted bolt. Be sure to spray under the bolt head and around the nut.

Step 3

Tap away!

Next, grab a hammer, and use this to lightly tap the bolt. This step might sound odd, however doing so will allow the fast acting formula to penetrate the fitting and loosen the bolt.

Then, make sure to wipe any excess product away with a paper towel, and wash your hands carefully.

Step 4

Clamp and remove

Now that your bolt has been sanded, lubricated and loosened, it’s time to work on the removal. Take a pair of pliers, and use this to grip onto the head of the bolt, and twist it firmly. Continue to twist until the bolt is freed.

Make sure you have replacement bolts, as this bolt will now be unusable.

 

 

Job done

We recommend that protect any bolts to prevent future rusting. You can use WD-40 Multi- Use Product, which will provide an invisible and protective layer over the bolt.

The uses shown and described for WD-40 Multi-Use Product were provided to WD-40 Company by the users themselves. These uses haven’t been tested by WD-40 Company and do not constitute a recommendation of suggestion for use by WD-40 Company. Common sense should be exercised whenever using WD-40 Company products. Always follow the instructions and take heed of any warnings printed on the packaging.