How to Loosen a Tight Blue Lock

Thread-locker is an adhesive added to the threads of bolts. The adhesive dries and creates a tight bond between the bolt and whatever the bolt secures. The strongest thread-locker is red and generally used in industrial and automotive applications where it is expected that you never need to remove the bolt. The other is blue, and it is used in applications where you may need to remove the bolt for maintenance. However, even though bolts are removable, it is possible that the bolts will still be very tight and hard to remove.

Box-end wrench or Allen wrench
Blow torch
Leather work gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Place a standard box-end wrench over the head of the hex-head bolt or use an Allen wrench if the wrench is a cap-headed bolt.
- 2
  Grip the wrench firmly with both hands and turn the wrench counterclockwise to break the grip of the blue thread-locker. If you cannot break the grip, do not force the wrench, as it could cause the head on the bolt to strip or shear off.
- 3
  Remove the Allen wrench or box-end wrench.
- 4
  Heat the surface of the bolt with a blowtorch to a temperature of approximately 482 degrees F. This will cause the area around the bolt to expand and make it easier to remove the bolt.
- 5
  Place the wrench back onto the bolt and turn the wrench counterclockwise while the bolt is hot. Wear leather work gloves to protect your hands while you work.

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