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.

 

[finn]

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.

I’m in the center of the rust universe and, until this spring, justified NOT buying one because I have an oxy acetylene torch setup.

Finally accepted the fact, that, given there’s no exposed flame, perhaps the induction heater MIGHT be safer.

After using it once, I now kick myself for not getting one sooner.

No open flame, no empty gas bottles on Friday night, no trips to the welding store, no lifting the bottles into the truck, no hoses to drag around….


Edit: Don’t get the idea that I have only used it once. It’s at the point that if there’s any question re is a fastener going to be a problem, I drag the induction heater out proactively and pour the coals to the suspect bolt.

 

[mreisner]

I have the Mini ductor, have had it for 3 years now and it has worked fantastic. What's the price of acetylene today it's almost expensive not having one.

 

[Pontiac787]

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

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

I wonder how this unit compares to the Hot Rod? It’s a great price but I’m wondering if it’s worth coughing up the extra $40.

 

[drmarkr]

I wonder how this unit compares to the Hot Rod? It’s a great price but I’m wondering if it’s worth coughing up the extra $40.

It arrived this morning....just need a chance to try it out. Which is not going to be as often in Tucson, as some of you poor midwest/NE saps, lol!