Removing an exterior carriage bolt, especially one that's old or corroded, can sometimes require more than just a wrench. Often, physical force is needed to break it free. As referenced in repair guides, a common method involves using a hammer to drive the bolt out after dealing with the nut and washer.
Carriage bolts are designed with a square shoulder under the head that bites into wood or other material, preventing the bolt from spinning while the nut is tightened. This feature, along with potential rust or corrosion, can make removal challenging.
## Steps for Removing a Stubborn Carriage Bolt
Here is a straightforward method for removing a carriage bolt, incorporating techniques like using a hammer to help loosen and extract the bolt:
1. **Prepare the Bolt:**
* Locate the nut and washer on the back of the bolt (the non-head side).
* Attempt to loosen the nut using an appropriately sized wrench or socket.
2. **Apply Penetrating Oil (Optional but Recommended):**
* If the nut is seized due to rust, apply a quality penetrating oil to the threads and around the washer. Let it soak for several minutes, or even longer for severe corrosion.
* Attempt to loosen the nut again. Sometimes working the nut back and forth slightly can help the oil penetrate.
3. **Remove Nut and Washer:**
* Once the nut can turn, back it off completely.
* Remove the washer from the bolt threads.
* *Reference Tip:* The process might involve loosening the nut "up against the back," then backing it out a little more, and taking the washer off.
4. **Use a Hammer to Drive Out the Bolt:**
* With the nut and washer removed, the bolt might still be stuck in the material.
* According to the reference, you should "use a hammer. And just whack it until it comes out".
* Position yourself to safely strike the head of the carriage bolt directly with a hammer, driving it through the material from the front side (head side) towards the back.
* Use firm, controlled strikes. The hammering action helps break any corrosion or grip the square shoulder has on the material.
5. **Complete Removal:**
* Continue hammering the bolt head until the bolt pushes entirely through the material and falls out, or can be easily pulled from the back side.
This method, particularly the use of a hammer to physically drive the bolt out after the nut and washer are removed, is an effective way to handle stubborn exterior carriage bolts often encountered in decks, fences, and other outdoor structures.
| Tool | Purpose |
| :------------ | :---------------------------------- |
| Wrench/Socket | Loosening and removing the nut |
| Penetrating Oil | Loosening rusted threads |
| Hammer | Driving the bolt out of the material |
Remember to wear appropriate safety gear, such as safety glasses, when using tools like hammers.
