Red threadlocker/loctite
 

What's the most effective way to clean up threads, both bolts and holes, after removal when threadlocker has been used? I've used different solvents and brushes in the past, but it's been many years since I've dealt with it. I'm curious what's considered easiest or best practice for it now. I expect to reinstall the clutch sometime in the next few days and hope to avoid any potential hiccups. I didn't see evidence of threadlocker being used on the flywheel bolts when I removed them, but also know the folks at Ram say it should be used. I'll be cleaning them regardless, but curious when dealing with threadlocker products.

Thanks.

Re: Red threadlocker/loctite
 

Small wire brush like welders have around or thread chasers. Not a typical tap or die, as they will likely remove metal too. Should just flake off.

Gently if you use a motor driven wire wheel. Some will advise to avoid those. I don't use one.

Re: Red threadlocker/loctite
 

Use a torch to heat them up. This softens the Loctite, and it cleans off easily.

Or soak in acetone for a few minutes. This does the same thing.

Re: Red threadlocker/loctite
 

Told by salesman at the plant decades ago? that the # of the Loctite originally (like 242) was the temp at which it turned soft. Anybody heard of this?
EDIT...
I asked AI

No, the number in a Loctite product name does not represent the temperature at which it softens. While heat is used to aid in the disassembly of some Loctite products, the product numbers relate to factors like strength, viscosity, and application type.
Here is how to interpret the Loctite naming system:
Color: The color of the Loctite is the primary indicator of its strength.
Purple (222): Low strength, used for small fasteners.
Blue (242, 243): Medium strength, allows for normal disassembly with hand tools.
Red (262, 271, 277): High strength, considered a permanent solution that requires localized heat to remove.
Green (290): Medium-to-high strength with low viscosity, designed for wicking into preassembled fasteners.
Number: The actual number, such as 242 or 277, indicates the adhesive's specific characteristics, such as viscosity, oil resistance, and maximum fastener size.
Temperature: The maximum operating temperature is a key specification found on the product's technical data sheet (TDS), not in the product number itself. For example, Loctite 242 (blue) has a temperature range of -65?F to 300F.

How to use heat for removal
Some Loctite compounds soften under high heat, which is a required removal method for high-strength (red) threadlockers.
Red (High-Strength): To remove red threadlockers, you must apply localized heat greater than 550F (250C) with a torch before disassembling with hand tools.
Blue (Medium-Strength): Blue threadlocker is designed to be removed with standard hand tools. However, if the fastener is particularly stubborn due to a longer engagement length, localized heat can also be applied to help loosen the bond.