Anyone use Wax as anti seize?

[Joelk]

I sometimes use wax when trying to get a fastener loose. Apply heat, apply wax and let it soak in.

I have tried different types of wax for this and currently use wax from a toilet bowl wax ring for most things.

Any reason this would not work well as a anti seize when assembling something that is exposed to moisture/potential rust?

The wax is a lot thicker than typical anti seize and when put onto bolt threads it appears to adhere very well.

I would think that if it did get "frozen" a quick heating with a torch would melt the remaining wax and aid in disassembly.

 

[sberry]

The main thing lube does during assembly is to keep it from seizing. A bit to keep contamination out. Let's it tighten smoothly without sticking. Let's it reverse.

 

[Dumber than lumber]

so one could use a lumber crayon? or another kind of wax stick? A candle?

 

[Professional Tool User]

I'm guessing that the problem with wax is that it will break down more easily. Anti-seize is a nasty man made material with better characteristics for the job. It makes your life easier next time if there's a good chance the bolt you are installing will be seized next time. Anti-seize is the difference between having to pull out the torch and being able to impact it off no problem. If you are forced to use the torch, you are already wasting time.

 

[nelstomlinson]

Antiseize has metal particles in it which will remain after the grease in which they are suspended has washed away. They will help prevent pressure welding, and if they are zinc, might help prevent electrolysis. Wax is good stuff, but it's not antiseize.

 

[Joelk]

Thanks for the replies!

I was not contemplating using the wax for high heat applications, but primarily for rust prone nuts/bolts.

I just replaced a severely rusted receiver hitch on my 2008 Silverado.

There was quite a bit of rust on the bolts, but I had access for a HD Impact Gun so I was able to zing the nuts/bolts out.

I decided to apply anti seize to the bolts/nuts when reassembling and I had just used the wax as a "penetrant/lubricant" to help with disassembly of some rusty Garden Tractor parts and it was still on my work cart.

The wax from the wax ring is a good bit more viscous than vaseline, but was easy to smear onto the threads with my fingers and I was not concerned about absorbing nasty chemicals.

It has been my experience that wax does not usually "wash off" (except for with heat, solvent, or perhaps a pressure washer) so I suspect that it will remain on the threads of these nuts/bolts for decades. If the wax is there, the water/salt can't get in and I expect that the nuts/bolts will be easy to remove 10 years from now.

 

[snickers muncher]

I tried the paste wax trick on my tablesaw to help prevent rust. While it did make wood slide easier across the table, it did not prevent rust as well a quick wipe down with wd40 every few weeks.

 

[PFSard]

I'd just stick with the typical anti seize compound. It has always worked well for me. Can't see any advantage to using wax as an alternative.

I do dunk my bicycle chain in melted paraffin wax once a month. Works well. Chains last about the same amount of riding as any other lube I've tried. Hardly ever have to clean the drive train anymore.

 

[MileHighRover]

If you're using melted wax on rusty fasteners, you should watch this.