If a bolt on a thermostat housing, or t-stat housing, is stuck, it will easily break if you use too much force. For this reason, you should not use an impact gun on the bolt, but you can use an air ratchet to give more force to loosen the bolt. If the bolt is 10 mm or less, use a 1/4-inch gun. If your thermostat housing bolts are 11 mm or larger, you can use a 3/8-inch gun.
Instructions
- 1
Turn the air compressor on and allow it to build up pressure. Spray the bolts with rust penetrant. Allow the penetrant 10 to 15 minutes to soak in and work its way down the threads.
2Fit the appropriate socket onto the appropriate air gun. Side the socket over the head of the bolt. Without hitting the power switch on the air gun, try to use it as a ratchet to remove the bolt. If it doesn't work, press the power switch on the air ratchet in short bursts.
3Spray the bolt with rust penetrant again, if it still does not want to come out. Allow it to set for 10 to 15 minutes and repeat the process with the air ratchet.
