Research on Rusty Fasteners (Old Topic Review)

[Fuddy Duddy]

Looking back right now on page 12 is the below post by Jim in
Eastern North Caro
12-08-2012 14:11:36.

Machinist's Workshop recently published some information on
various penetrating oils. The magazine reports they tested
penetrates for break out torque on rusted nuts. Below listed, a
test was made of all the popular penetrates used on a series of
identical bolts/nuts in a "scientifically rusted" environment.
Average torque load to loosen:

No Oil used ................... 516 pounds
WD-40 ......................... 238 pounds
PB Blaster .................... 214 pounds
Liquid Wrench ..................127 pounds
Kano Kroil .................... 106 pounds
ATF - Acetone mix................53 pounds

The ATF-Acetone mix was a "home brew" mix of 50 - 50
automatic transmission fluid and acetone. Note this "home brew"
released bolts better than any commercial product in this one
particular test.

Here's what I found. Back when I was getting ready to break free
the old Hercules engine, It had soaked it for a week in MMO.
Then I read the post. So I mixed some ATF and Acetone. Used
the MMO that was in there already as a lubercten to hone and
sand the cylinders. Then I remove all the MMO and added the
Mixture in there. About a 1/4 inch in each cylinder. After about 5
minutes, I had a piece oak cut down to fit the cylinder. So I
thought why not give a few taps to see what happens. This was
the first try at moving the pistons. After a few taps they did
break free. I don't know if it was the MMO or the mixture or just
wasn't stuck as bad as I thought.
But here's the point of my post. I poured the rest of the mixture I
had left in a glass jar 4 inches tall. A few days latter I looked at it
and saw there was a separation line. ATF was on the bottom and
measured 2 3/4. The Acetone was on top with 1 1/4 inches. The
Acetone still has a red tint. Just lighter than the bottom. The test
was done on Breaking Free nuts and bolt. Maybe if you want to
long term soak rings in a cylinders you might want to go with a 2
to 1 mixture. Just my observation and thought. Test it yourself.
Jim I hope you don't mind my copying your post.
 

[Hobo,NC]

I have never noticed separation BUT do add some Diesel to the mix...

I have not loaded this tool up yet just got 2 of'em for the shop..



http://www.amazon.com/Vaper-Spot-Sprayer-Non-Aerosol-Model/dp/B0035FH906
 

[old]

I never use acetone but I do use ATF ALL the time. I even have a pump oil can that I keep full of ATF for nuts and bolts etc and that works great. MMO is very close to the same as ATF just smells a lot better but cost a guy 3 times more then the ATF does
 

[Jim in Eastern North Caro]

Consider it a compliment to be referenced or copy'ed. I use a very old metal oiler with a trigger and nozzle, and I'm not surprised that you see a separation of these two liquids in a clear jar. And since acetone has a higher vapor presssure than ATF, I expect it also evaporates over a few days/weeks, accounting for your observation. I just shake my oiler and add some acetone every now and then. Good stuff!!!