5 replies to this topic

[Bodhi]

It's something a lot of people have had problems with. Been reading about heating up the bolts so they contract and hopefully break the seal. Any one ever had any luck with a heat gun instead of a blow torch? And using anything better than wd40? Again read up on some random cocktails people have made to try and get lubrication

[gazza82]

Use penetrating fluid not WD40 .. something like PlusGas

 

And heating something metal will cause it to expand not contract ..

 

Problem is steel bolts against alloy thermostat parts ... never a great combination after a few years. I replaced the lot once as it was obvious the housing wasn't going to budge. Destroyed the alloy housing so I could get to the studs, removed those using penetrating fluid (lots over several days) and working them loose with molegrips. Then fitted new studs (today I'd fit StainlessSteel ones) and a new housing.

Edited by gazza82, 30 September 2015 - 12:04 PM.

[jaydee]

When you replace the new thermosat housing bolt or stud whatever you prefer, apply some grease, so the threads wont rust avoiding issues in future maintanance.

[Ethel]

If it's the original pattern housing (without a sandwich plate or extra connection), I wouldn't be too bothered about breaking it to get it off. When they corrode they get brittle, and they're not too expensive. 

 

If there's enough thread try locking a couple of nuts onto the end of the stud, so you can attempt to unscrew it with the bottom nut.

[Bodhi]

Cheers guys, I tried the two nut trick but nothing budged, I've got stainless studs and a new housing so I'll try gentle breaking it off

[gazza82]

Did you give it a good soaking with penetrating fluid?