Removing LOCTITE high-strength threadlocker can be difficult, and it's a common vehicle maintenance question. While the performance of our high-strength threadlockers is formidable, and meant to be a permanent assembly method, don't believe the myths: high-strength threadlocker can be disassembled with the right technique.
The process for removing high-strength threadlocker is a little different to that for other threadlockers. The key is to apply localised heat greater than 250°C. Then, once the threaded assembly is hot, the bolt can be unthreaded. Without applying heat to the assembly, some bolts threaded into tapped holes risk breaking.
When the threads are locked, even the most aggressive solvents are unable to weaken a high-strength threadlocker due to the limited surface area for the solvent to attack. Only by using heat can you penetrate and remove red LOCTITE threadlocker in an assembled joint.
The ideal placement of high-strength threadlockers is on bolts ranging from M20 to M80 diameter, in some of the following areas:
Consult with LOCTITE experts to learn more about how to apply threadlockers for best performance.
When a threadlocked bolt is disassembled and needs to be reused, the cured high-strength threadlocker will need to be removed from the threads. The cured red LOCTITE product can be removed with a combination of soaking in a solvent, and mechanical abrasion such as wire brushing. For female threads, a tap can be used to clear the threads instead of a wire brush.
LOCTITE SF 7200 can be used to soften cured high-strength LOCTITE. Mechanical abrasion will also be needed to assist with the removal.
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