Seized/Rounded Lug Nutz

[jbh3]

Have a tire going down on my trailer. No problem, I thought. I'll just take it off and get it to a tire shop after the first. Got all the lugs to break loose - except one. It's apparently seized and is now rounded off to the point no socket I own will get a bite. Would appreciate info from any folks that have dealt with the situation. FWIW, it's an 2007 MFI/Triton tandem. THANKS and Happy New Year folks!

 

[Guest]

Here are a couple of ways to get it off, use a torch to heat the nut red hot and screw it off with vise grips or take a thin zip wheel and cut the nut off, after removing the wheel, knock the stud out and replace it. Studs can be found at all auto parts stores.

 

[buzz]

And you might try a 6point socket. It might give you that little edge you need. Drive it on. You can always get the nut out of the socket.

 

[BustinBass197]

I'm with Doc1 heat it up or cut if off and replace the stud. They can be tough to get out b/c most are pressed in there. Probably needs to be replaced. It would be bad to have a blowout on the road and not be able to put the spare on b/c of that bad stud.

 

[buzz]

I agree...replace the stud...the last feller..may have cross threaded it..anyway!

 

[captain kirk]

Here is another way to get it off. Weld a larger nut to the rounded nut if you have enough room, if not weld on a large flat washer with a hole that will go over the bad nut then weld on a larger nut to the washer. Protect the stud from the weld.

 

[dragfish]

If you have a custom wheel (likely on that boat) it probably has acorn , or fully capped lugs'
If you can get a cut-off wheel and grind a straight slot in the end of the lug nut (like you were making a straight screw slot)
Take a cold chisel and drive it straight into the slot with a few good shots from a hammer the nut should split away from the stud. If that works- still replace the stud.
Good luck!
Then immediately go fishing!!

 

[jbh3]

Thanks for the suggestions, guys. Unfortunately, they are "regular" nuts and not the acorn type. The wheel is aluminum, I believe, so I'm a little afraid of heating it up. Looks like there are actually sockets available from a number of sources that are supposed to address the issue. I'm going to try that route next. Google "grip tight sockets" for info. Will let everyone know how it works.

 

[salecreekaviator]

Let us know how you solve it.

 

[Guest]

If the wheel is aluminum, your best bet is to use a high speed electric or air zip wheel to cut the lug off then knock out the stud and replace it. Very simple procedure.

 

[jbh3]

VERY happy to report a satisfactory solution to this issue with little or no apparent collateral damage. My local Advanced Auto had a set of sockets for this purpose. They are similar to the Sears sockets but are Irwin "Bolt Grips". A 5 piece set covers 5/16" to 3/4" and 8mm to 19mm. Cost was $25.50. Worked on them for a while with an impact wrench, but the trusty 1/2" breaker bar w/cheater struck the final blow. HIGHLY recommend the Irwin "Bolt Grips"! Will remove the lugs and clean treads on the other 3 wheels this weekend. Thanks again to all who responded.