Monday, November 17, 2014
The Best Way to Clean Threadlock Out of a Nut
Threadlock compound is a paste-like or liquid substance designed to seal the threads of metallic nuts and bolts. After applying threadlocker compound to the threads of a bolt, the substance will harden, providing an airtight and waterproof seal. Many automotive, industrial and hobby applications call for the use of threadlocker during assembly and repair tasks associated with certain components. Removing this hardened compound from a nut is an easy task, with the correct tools and supplies available.
Instructions
- 1
Peel off any thick portions of the threadlock from the nut, using a pair of small tweezers to gain access to the threads.
2Apply a liberal amount of comparable threadlocker to the threaded portion of the nut. Allow the applied compound to soak into the threads and soften the old hardened threadlock.
3Wipe off the threadlock, using a clean shop rag or paper towel. Put on a pair of thick leather gloves and clean out the remaining threadlocker with a sharp hobby knife. If any residue remains on the threads, move on to the next steps.
4Secure the nut with a C-clamp or bench vice. Apply heat to the nut, using a lighter or propane torch. Do not operate the lighter or torch around flammable liquids, gasses or solid materials. Heat the nut until the hardened threadlock turns to ash.
5Allow the nut to cool sufficiently. Remove the nut from the clamp and clean out any remaining residue from the threads, using the hobby knife. Wipe off the outside portion of the nut with a clean towel to complete the process.
The Best Way to Clean Threadlock Out of a Nut
Threadlock compound is a paste-like or liquid substance designed to seal the threads of metallic nuts and bolts. After applying threadlocker compound to the threads of a bolt, the substance will harden, providing an airtight and waterproof seal. Many automotive, industrial and hobby applications call for the use of threadlocker during assembly and repair tasks associated with certain components. Removing this hardened compound from a nut is an easy task, with the correct tools and supplies available.
Instructions
- 1
Peel off any thick portions of the threadlock from the nut, using a pair of small tweezers to gain access to the threads.
2Apply a liberal amount of comparable threadlocker to the threaded portion of the nut. Allow the applied compound to soak into the threads and soften the old hardened threadlock.
3Wipe off the threadlock, using a clean shop rag or paper towel. Put on a pair of thick leather gloves and clean out the remaining threadlocker with a sharp hobby knife. If any residue remains on the threads, move on to the next steps.
4Secure the nut with a C-clamp or bench vice. Apply heat to the nut, using a lighter or propane torch. Do not operate the lighter or torch around flammable liquids, gasses or solid materials. Heat the nut until the hardened threadlock turns to ash.
5Allow the nut to cool sufficiently. Remove the nut from the clamp and clean out any remaining residue from the threads, using the hobby knife. Wipe off the outside portion of the nut with a clean towel to complete the process.
Tuesday, October 29, 2013
How to Clean a Grease Gun
Used to apply pressurized grease to mechanical components that require lubrication, grease guns are an essential tool in many workshops, particularly automotive garages. Though grease guns certainly clean up the process of applying grease compared to the old method of applying it by hand or with a grease swab, using a grease gun is still a messy process. Cleaning a grease gun ensures that it applies grease evenly and smoothly. Clean your grease gun with clean cloth towels and water mixed with a gentle anti-grease soap, such as dish detergent.
Instructions
- 1
Remove the old grease cartridge from your grease gun according to the specifications of your specific gun. Often this process requires you to unscrew the head of the grease gun, pull out the loading rod at the bottom of the handle and then pull the cartridge out with a pair of pliers.
2Wipe all the excess grease off of the external nozzle as well as the inside of the cartridge chamber with a clean cloth. It is important to clean off all the old grease, as well as any debris which may have become trapped by the grease, including grit, dirt, metal shards or fibers. Use a durable press-fiber cloth so as to avoid inadvertently leaving fibers on or in the grease gun.
3Wash the exterior and interior components of the grease gun with a mild grease cutting soap such as dish detergent. Scrub the gun components with soapy water and a fresh press-fiber cloth.
4Soak and rinse the exterior and interior of the gun thoroughly with fresh water. Ensure that all soap is rinsed thoroughly from the gun, or the integrity of any grease you apply with the gun will be compromised.
5Dry the guns exterior thoroughly and allow the interior to air dry for at least a day before attempting to reload a fresh grease cartridge.
