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I think that's one of the biggest screwups people make with WD-40 is that it's basically just a petroleum solvent and other than maybe initially unsticking thin
by rpcope1 2y ago
I think that's one of the biggest screwups people make with WD-40 is that it's basically just a petroleum solvent and other than maybe initially unsticking things, it often makes the problem worse. As far as solvents go it's not particularly great, and in terms of lubricating or breaking free it's pretty bad. I'm surprised they still sell as much of it as they do (chalk it up to good marketing), when for basically everything there's a better choice (protip: if something is really stuck, the best tool provided you don't have dogs or children getting near is going to be acetone mixed with a good ATF).
- jfengel 2y agoTIL that ATF=automatic transmission fluid. Still unclear on why this particular mix is optimal for unsticking things but Google suggests a lot of people use it.
- winrid 2y agoYes, I've used ATF to fix seized up motors. Just fill cylinder and let it sit for a few days.
- GuB-42 2y agoJack of all trades, master of none. It is a better lubricant than most solvants and a better solvant than most lubricants, it will always be worse than a specialized product, but if you are only allowed a single can, that's a good choice. Affordable and widely available too. Oh and the pressurized can form factor is convenient.
- yial 2y agoHate the smell of ATF but it was a life saver on some hinges that I wanted to save, but I couldn’t get to move after trying penetrating oil, wd-40, and some other things (not in that order ). ATF after a few hours succeeded.