Transyl on seized bolt

How to loosen and remove rusted bolts or nuts

You may be about to undertake a project but have come to a halt after discovering a rusted or seized bolt. This is unfortunately very common as bolts can be exposed to moisture and humid weather for long periods of time, which can lead to rust forming.

Fortunately, is now quick and easy to loosen and remove rusted bolts or nuts, thanks to Owatrol Transyl – our lubricant and releasing oil.

Things you will need

  • Transyl Oil
  • A wire brush
  • A hammer
  • Grip Pliers / A suitable sized spanner if the rust isn’t too extreme
  • Kitchen towels
  • Replacement bolt – if required

Now you have everything you need, simply follow our 5 steps below and you will have the bolt freed in no time!

Step 1

Wire brush close up

Get scraping

Begin by using a wire brush to remove as much rust from the bolt as you can. This is because scraping away as much excess rust as possible will help give you a better grip when it comes to using the pliers.

Be sure to target the entirety of the bolt including the head and the threading.

Step 2

Transyl can and spray packaging

Apply Owatrol Transyl

For ease of use and accurate distribution, we recommend using one of our spray can sizes of Transyl. This is because they have a 2 point applicator that allows you to decide between using the wide spray nozzle, or the precise straw applicator.

Fully saturate the bolt and allow a few minutes for the Transyl to get to work. Make sure you spray under the bolt head as well as around the nut (if necessary).

Step 3

Hammer close up

Get hammering

Next up you will want to grab your hammer and tap the bolt with it a few times.

We know this may sound a little strange but this step will allow the Transyl to move further into the fitting and help to loosen the bolt. This is turn will make it a little easier to remove.

After you have tapped the bolt a few times, you might want to wipe away the excess Transyl with some kitchen towels and perhaps give your hands a wash.

Step 4

Close up of pliers

Clamp tight

One you have scraped, lubricated and tapped your bolt you are now ready for the final step in the removal process.

Pick up your grip pliers and clamp / grip it over the fasteners head. With a strong grip, twist it firmly to the left. Continue twisting as the bolt is removed.

If the rust isn’t too extreme, you may be able to use a spanner and simply remove the bolt in the usual way.

Once you have removed the bolt and it does not require a replacement, you are now done! However, if you need to replace the bolt, you will have one final step below.

Step 5

Bolts and nuts

Protect the bolt

Your pesky rusted bolt should now be free!

We highly recommend that you keep on top of protecting your bolts to prevent them from rusting again in future. Therefore we recommend an application of Transyl on your replacement bolt as it will provide an invisible and protective layer over it.


We hope this post was helpful and you now know how to loosen and remove rusted bolts or nuts. If you have any other advice or top tips, please feel free to leave them in the comments below. We love hearing from you!

You can also follow us on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram or Pinterest at @OwatrolUK or find us under the hashtag #OwatrolUK

How to loosen and remove rusted bolts or nuts - Pinterest

Owatrol Team
About Owatrol Team

Our team are ready and willing to support you with your requirements whether it is protecting your newly laid deck or renovating a luxury yacht, whatever the application Owatrol has the solution you are looking for.

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