How do you remove a lock washer?

Question

So, I know that they are supposed to stay on, but this one was accidentally put somewhere it shouldn't be and we need to put a different one on to tighten it down. Is there any way to get it off?

Answer 1

If youre having trouble unbolting the nut, it may have inadvertently been cross threaded.  If that is the case, the bolt is probably damaged, and will have to be replaced.

If you can get a wrench on the bolt, and another on the nut, it will give you more leverage to undo it  (provided you have easy access to both).  You might try a longer wrench, or even a length of pipe over a wrench to provide more leverage.

Worst case scenario... cut it off.  You can do this a couple of different ways... there's a tool that will split the nut (very handy for when the bolt and nut are hopelessly rusted together, hehe), or you can use a 'dremel' type rotary tool with a cutter bit.

Have Fun

Answer 2

all you got to do is use a good wrench or socket and turn it the other way then when you tightened it it will come of use liquid wrench to lubricate if you like .

Answer 3

Frankly, a strange question.  Lock washers are held on by nothing more than friction.  Is the nut above the lockwasher something that you cannot get off?  If so, go to the hardware store and buy a little can of Liquid Wrench.  Let that soak in for 30 minutes.  You should be able to remove the nut.

If it is just the lockwasher that is seemingly stuck, you should be able to move it with a little screwdriver.  If this is actually a nylon-lined nut, go with suggestion #1.

Answer 4

with a socket