Induction Tool to Break Rusted Fasteners Loose

[oldtimehockey]

Hi GJ'ers...I'm starting to do some research on those induction tools that are used heaktup to break rusted fasteners loose for removal. So far, I've been looking at Induction Innovations (Mini-Ductor) and the Bolt Buster BB2X models. Do any of you have experience with these tools or willing to send along your recommendations...??? Thank you for your time.

 

[zendriver]

If you don't mind imports, I have a "hot rod" that gets the job done, "now under $200".

Not sure about the value of a higher watt units, unless using it on very large fasteners. Red hot is red hot.

 

[decableguy2000]

I got the bolt buster a few moths ago. No complaints. Used it on some nasty 22 year old exhaust bolts. I'll be using again tomorrow to make a custom 10mm wrench.

 

[oldtimehockey]

Thanks Guys...I've been leaning towards the Bolt Buster...The Mini-Ductor is just not in the budget for my needs. If I boughtt the Mini-Ductor it would be "Buy once and cry a lot more than once"...Unless I find a wicked good deal. I do prefer a Made in USA unit. Cheers...!!!

 

[Relax]

If you don't mind imports, I have a "hot rod" that gets the job done, "now under $200".

Not sure about the value of a higher watt units, unless using it on very large fasteners. Red hot is red hot.

I also have the Hot Rod from Solary. Bought it in 2023 from Amazon Warehouse as "Used - Acceptable" because I wasn't confident it would work as advertised and was fully expecting to return it, but it exceeded my expectations. Came with 3 fixed coils which have worked on any automotive fastener head I've needed, but I eventually want to try the flexible coils that you can wrap around something that the coil can't reach (like the middle of a Subaru ball joint pinch bolt). Every time I use it I smile and ask myself why I didn't grab it earlier.

 

[The Metric System]

I also have the Hot Rod from Solary. Bought it in 2023 from Amazon Warehouse as "Used - Acceptable" because I wasn't confident it would work as advertised and was fully expecting to return it, but it exceeded my expectations.

I had the same experience with the same tool. I wasn't expecting much, and was pleasantly surprised to find that it works well and is extremely handy in situations where it's relevant.

I wouldn't pay a premium for a name brand or higher wattage, my 1,200W cheapie does anything I ask of it no problem.

 

[finn]

I bought a $150 generic 1300 watt Amazon induction heater this spring. No issues so far, and it works as I expected.

I really don’t see any advantage to spending more than that on such a simple tool.

I’ve used it a lot more than I expected, but I’m a hobby guy, not a 40 hr per week mechanic.

 

[drmarkr]

Well ****....there's one small (or so) I didn't plan to spend today....

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F6MT5KC9?tag=atomicindus08-20

 

[Hakeem]

I have the same generic induction heater as pictured here and it’s been just fine for me. Doesn’t get big (like >19mm) fasteners red hot but still gets them hot enough to loosen them. I got the Amazon extra warranty just in case but havent needed it.

The mini ductor works much faster but for 5-6x the price I don’t think the value is there unless you’re a professional.

 

[zendriver]

As much people like to buy stuff they rarely use, I’m surprised everyone who does have to deal with Rusty bolts doesn’t already have one.

 

[Beerhippie]

I'm tempted to buy one every time I read one of these threads.

Then I recall that I live in the Intermountain West. Here's to aridity and little or no salt.