If you’ve ever had the misfortune of dealing with a stripped lug nut, you know it can be a real headache. You might think you don’t have any options, but this guide will show you how to remove a destroyed lug nut.
What Causes Lug Nuts to Be Destroyed?
Lug nuts can become destroyed due to various causes, such as rust and corrosion, over-tightening, and impact. Let us examine these causes in more detail.
As for Rust
One of the most common causes of damaged lug nuts is rust and corrosion due to constant exposure to weather and road conditions such as water, dust, and dirt. Even though lug nuts are coated to prevent rust, they can wear down and become susceptible to rust and corrosion over time.
Overtighten
Lug Nuts can become damaged if they are overtightened. If you apply too much torque when tightening the lug nuts, they can strip and become difficult to remove. It is essential to be careful when tightening the lug nuts to avoid damaging them.
Low-Quality Nut
When you purchase a new car, it typically comes with a high-quality lug nut. However, when replacing the lug nut for any reason, it is important to make sure the replacement lug nut is also high-quality to avoid problems in the future.
Wear and Tear
Lug nuts can become worn out over time due to excessive use. If they are regularly loosened and tightened, the corners can become rounded, and the lug nut can eventually become damaged.
Wrong Size Tools
Using the wrong size tools can lead to a damaged lug nut. Cheap, local wrenches are often not of the perfect size or made of good material and can cause the lug nut not to be seated evenly. This can result in repeated slipping and wearing out of the nut.
How to Remove a Destroyed Lug Nut
If a standard lug wrench fails to remove a damaged or stripped lug nut, there are several techniques you can use to remove it. Here are some of the options available:
Spray penetrating oil on the Lug Nut, such as WD-40, before attempting to remove it, and allow it to sit for a while. This oil can help loosen the Lug Nut and make removal more accessible.
Method 1: First Try with Impact Socket (12-Point)
- Begin by selecting an Impact Socket (12-Point) one size smaller than the damaged Lug Nut.
- Attempt to fit the Impact Socket onto the nut manually. If it does not work, use a hammer to get it in place.
- Once the Impact Socket is on, use a large-sized ratchet to twist it, and hopefully, the Lug Nut will come off.
Method 2: Use Lug Nut Extractor
If the Impact Socket method fails to remove a Destroyed Lug Nut, then Lug Nut Extractor is the best tool. It is specially designed to get the job done.
The process of using it is similar to that of the Impact Socket method. We have written a comprehensive guide on how to use this tool, so click on the link for more information.
Avoid Method
Sometimes, people suggest methods that can be dangerous when dealing with hobby vehicle repairs. Although these may be inexpensive and can be done with tools at home, I recommend against using them on your hobby car. Let us explore these methods further.
Flat Punch Tool or Chisel
Using a Punch Tool or Chisel to remove the rim may be effective but dangerous. If the tool slips during the work, it could cause scratches or holes in the rim’s body, resulting in a less-than-desirable outcome.
Heat Method
It is recommended to open up other options, but the car’s wheels must not be used in place of lug nuts. If a torch is used to apply heat to a specific area, it can damage the appearance of the rim of the wheel.
Conclusion
If you’re faced with a stripped lug nut, you don’t have to panic! You can easily remove a destroyed lug nut with the right tools and techniques. Be sure to use the correct method and avoid any further damage.
This guide has outlined the various causes of damaged lug nuts and the methods you can use to remove them safely. Feel free to share this guide with your friends who may find themselves in the same situation!
