Tech Tips: Removing a Seized Fastener

Difficulty Level

Tools/Supplies Needed:

• screwdriver
• ratchet and socket
• wrench
• pliers

Procedure:

• penetrating oil isn't always needed for this, but it does make the procedure much easier
• start part applying a little penetrating oil if desired to the fastener
• it does help if you allow it soak overnight, but isn't necessarily
• using your choice of fastener, slowly try to loosen it
• if that doesn't work, then try ever so slightly you tighten it
• just tighten it enough to crack the rust either my moving or flexing the fastener
• then try to loosen it again
• back it off slowly until it started to get tight, then stop
• apply some more penetrating oil
• tight the fastener
• then loosen it off again until it started to get tight an repeat process

Video tech tip on how to remove a seized fastener with only using removal tools of your choice and penetrating oil is optional. This can be applied to a variety of fasteners such as nuts, bolts, machine screws, sheet metal screws, etc. This method an almost guarentee that you will be able to remove the fastener and long as you have patience and persistence. Penetrating oil isn't always needed, but it does make the procedure a lot easier. This particular tutorial was done on a 2003 Dodge Dakota.