Introduction: How to Remove a Fastener With Threadlocker Without Heat

By 4DIYers
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Video tutorial on how to remove a fastener with high strength thread locker without using heat. A fastener with high strength, usually red in color can be quite the nightmare to remove. I am currently fighting with this, I have four bolts to remove for the wheel bearing which used a thread locker from factory. Heat can’t always be used in every situation, the strut is right next to these bolts so heat would be a good idea or perhaps you don’t have access to a torch. The heat normally helps melt the thread locker making it softer and easier to work with.

Tools/Supplies Needed:

  • ratchet
  • wrenches
  • socket set
  • brake cleaner
  • safety glasses
  • respirator

Step 1:

Penetrating oil doesn’t usually work either as most thread lockers are resistant to it.

So instead I have been using brake cleaner. Not all brake cleaners work I have found, here I am using a chlorinated high strength formula which does soften it to a workable state. Just spraying it on one of the bolts I’ve already removed, you can see it removes easier with a screwdriver tip.The solvent is thin enough where it’s able to work between the mounting surfaces and thread cracked. Once you’ve loosened it up, then apply more solvent, you may need to work the fastener back and forth depending how much thread locker there is.

It’s important to work in a well ventilated area or wear a respirator and use safety glasses.

Step 2:

The solvent is thin enough where it’s able to work between the mounting surfaces and thread cracked. Once you’ve loosened it up, then apply more solvent, you may need to work the fastener back and forth depending how much thread locker there is.

It’s important to work in a well ventilated area or wear a respirator and use safety glasses.

Step 3:

Now I have also done a little research on information sheets from different thread locker manufactures. Some will list different chemicals that does make their compounds softer. These solvents can include and are not limited to trichloroethylene, toluene, and ethylene dichloride. I’ll include the names to those chemicals in the description below too.

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