Steel Part Seized in Aluminum

[E. von Hoegh]

This problem sounds remarkably (or not) similar to the common problem in older bikes of the aluminum stem getting stuck in the steel steerer tube of the frame. Google on that issue and you will find all kinds of tips. Boiling water is supposed to be fairly effective, I have an old bike with a stuck stem expander bolt I'm going to try that trick on soon..

Good luck. I bought an old Raleigh T531 frame with a stuck seat post. Tried everything, including turning an arbor to attach a chain to the bottom bracket and a come-a-long between two trees. I eventually cut the top off the Campagnolo post and chiseled a groove down the inside, twisting it with a pipe wrench finally loosened it.

[jp]

An alternative to propane would be a can of refrigerant from the auto parts store. Some of the canned air dusting products may be propane as well, and liquid comes out if you use them upside down.

[rdenney]

An alternative to propane would be a can of refrigerant from the auto parts store. Some of the canned air dusting products may be propane as well, and liquid comes out if you use them upside down.

It's against the law to do that with refrigerant. But propane makes a better refrigerant than those refrigerants, so just take a propane torch and hold it upside-down and then open the valve.

Put the cigarette out first, though.

Rick "who uses propane refrigerant in his old motorhome dash air conditioning" Denney

[dsphotog]

If it's working, I'd leave that part alone.
What's that old saying?
If it jams, force it.
If it breaks, it needed replacing anyway.

[Richard Wasserman]

Unfortunately it's a part that needs adjusting, and in order to adjust it I first need to remove it. It's currently in the freezer getting ready for its hot water bath.

If it's working, I'd leave that part alone.
What's that old saying?
If it jams, force it.
If it breaks, it needed replacing anyway.

[dsphotog]

Keep us posted...
I like soaking parts in Marvel Mystery oil.

[Gary Beasley]

I've dealt with steel shafts stuck in aluminum before on a larger scale and eventually had to use vinegar to dissolve the corrosion before I could get it loose. After that a good flush with oil to displace the vinegar and I was back in business. No idea if it would work on your part.

[Michael Jones]

I vote for the liquid propane only because the 4th of July is coming. Please videotape & tape the result...

Mike

[Richard Wasserman]

A bit like the guys who lit their barbeque with an assist from liquid oxygen, perhaps?

I vote for the liquid propane only because the 4th of July is coming. Please videotape & tape the result...

Mike

[Preston]

I would not use propane or any other liquified flammable gas. These materials have very wide explosive ranges and very high expansion ratios, e.g. Propane is 1860:1. Never use liquid oxygen! If it comes in contact with any grease or oil, a flash fire will result! If you do use a liquified gas, I would suggest carbon dioxide. Use it in a well ventilated area. Be sure to use eye protection and suitable gloves.

--P