How to Remove Red Threadlocker 

Removing LOCTITE^® red threadlocker can be difficult, and it’s a common vehicle maintenance question. While the strength of our red threadlockers is formidable, and meant to be a permanent assembly method, don’t believe the myths: red threadlocker can be disassembled with the right technique.
The process of knowing how to remove red threadlocker is a little different than for other threadlockers. The key is to apply localized heat greater than 250°C (550° F). 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.
Watch this video for a demonstration on how to release and remove red LOCTITE^® threadlocker:
The ideal placement of red threadlockers is on bolts ranging from 1/4″ to 3/4″ diameter for some of the following areas:

• Bearing caps
• Motor mounts
• Suspension bolts
• Heavy duty equipment area

Is it possible to remove red LOCTITE^® without heat?

When the threads are locked, even the most aggressive solvents are unable to weaken a red 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.

How to clean and remove red LOCTITE^® threadlocker from threads?

When a threadlocked bolt is disassembled and needs to be reused, the cured red 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 a wire brush. For female threads, a tap can be used to clear the threads instead of a wire brush.

What will dissolve red LOCTITE^®?

LOCTITE^® SF 790 Chisel Paint Stripper or LOCTITE^® SF 7601 Equipment Flushing Solvent can be used to soften cured red LOCTITE^®. Mechanical abrasion will also be needed to assist with the removal.