Rusty Bolt...

[Moto Mel]

I've got a couple of problem bolts in our Ranger and could use some real help.
First; The bolt that retains the engine oil dipstick seems to be rusted solid to the exhaust manifold, but the mounting tab is rusted through and the dipstick is loose in the block, if it wasn't for the wire attatched to it it would fall out.. I've tried warming the manifold by running the engine, hoping the expansion of the cast iron manifold and the JB RustBuster would help to free it. No such luck! I then tried an impact driver and broke a couple of 12mm 6 point Craftsman sockets, Then I tried my IR Titanium 1/2 in impact and succeded in rounding the corners off the bolt, I then used a Harley tool to fit a 11mm socket knowing that I havent got a snowballs chance, but I tried anyway. That just rounded the bolt somemore. I really dont want to try replacing the manifold with the experience I already have with this bolt as they look just as rusty and if they break off the head will have to come off too. So, if any of you have a surefire method of removing the bolt I would appreciate hearing about it.
Second; Same problem with the seat track mounting bolts, not rounded off or broken, the rear ones just won't move and we would really like to replace the seats.
This truck was originally from Philly and it looks like the salt was never washed off. I've found a new defination for Ford;
Full
Of
Rust
Don't ya know.

 

[skyy_4life]

well first off,,, ur using craftsman... heh. if u would use Snap-On... as u put the 12mm on the bolt it would have taken itself out and jumped into ur bolt bin... heh. j/k i would try letting manifold be Warm.. not hot but warm and try hammering a smaller socket on it and put an impact on it and take ur luck.

 

[Moto Mel]

Tried that very method, Just rounded it off more. A friend came over today and brought his CRAFTSMAN stud removers. He had it out in less than a minute. I worked on it for at least 2 hours and was considering a used manifold. The craftsman stud remover kit cost him about $100.00 he said and seems to be a great set, he says it never fails to get the stud or bolt out if there's anything for it to get a bite on. I'm going to pick one up in the next few days.
I still have the problem with the seat bolts and that might be a project for next weekend.

 

[redgooch]

old school tricks

A trick my dad taught me is to use a torch to heat up the bolt and while it is still good and hot drip candle wax on it. The wax will penetrate better than most lubes. I didn't believe it till i tried it. When it comes to penatrating lubes though PB Blaster is the best stuff out there. Sometimes an impact driver, the kind you hit with a hammer, will do the trick