How to Loosen Loctite

Loctite is one of the well-known brands of a type of product known as a threadlocker. There are several different strengths ranging from light to permanent. This product is applied to bolts during assembly of certain parts when performing service on an automobile. Loctite helps create a stronger bond between threads after a bolt is tightened, making it impossible to become loose. Loctite use is not limited to automobiles.

Things You'll Need

  • Socket set
  • 2-foot breaker bar
  • Safety glasses
  • Oxyacetylene torch
  • Impact wrench

Using Leverage

  • Place the proper 6-point socket onto the bolt to be removed. Ensure the socket has a snug fit over the bolt head to help prevent the possibility of stripping the head of the bolt.

  • Connect the 2-foot breaker bar to the socket. Rotate the breaker bar into a position that allows the tool to be pulled on as opposed to pushed.

  • Pull on the breaker bar with a jerking motion several times. If the bolt does not break loose, you will not be able to remove the bolt without the use of heat or high-powered air tools.

Impact Wrench

  • Put on the safety glasses. Place the proper 6-point socket over the bolt.

  • Place the impact gun onto the socket and attempt to impact the bolt loose.

  • Allow the impact gun to work at loosening the bolt for approximately 10 seconds. If the bolt breaks free, quit using the impact gun and use hand tools to finish removing the bolt. If the impact gun fails to break the bolt loose, the use of heat will be necessary.

Heat

  • Visually inspect the area around the bolt. Remove any plastic, rubber or nylon items that can be damaged by extreme heat. Put on the flame resistant mask, sleeves and gloves.

  • Ignite the torch and begin applying heat around the area of the bolt, focusing on the areas where there is thread contact. Continue heating the area with the torch until you achieve a bright red glow.

  • Place the proper 6-point socket onto the bolt and attach the 2-foot breaker bar. Turn the breaker bar until it is in a position to be pulled.

  • Pull on the breaker bar with a jerking motion until the nut breaks loose and carefully remove the bolt. The bolt will be very hot.

  • If the bolt does not break free with the breaker bar, reheat the area with the torch. Place the socket back onto the bolt and use the impact wrench to break the bolt loose.