Got stuck choosing between a 3/8 inch drive or a 1/2 inch for a stubborn gearbox bolt on a 1980s Otis unit.

I went with the 3/8 and the socket cracked like an egg after a solid whack, so what's your go-to move when a bolt just won't budge?

2 comments

2 Comments

umaanderson14h ago

Man, that's rough but honestly I would have started with the half inch drive every time. Those old Otis bolts are basically welded in place. My move is to soak it in penetrating oil overnight first, then hit it with the big gun and a long breaker bar. If that doesn't work, it's time for some gentle heat before you round anything off.

uma_webb2813h ago

The half inch drive is a good start, but I've had those bolts laugh at a breaker bar. Last time I used a four foot pipe on the handle for extra force. You really need that long cheater bar to get enough torque. The overnight soak is key, but sometimes you need two full days of oil. If heat is next, keep the flame moving so you don't wreck the surrounding metal.