Almost anyone can benefit from adding a penetrating oil to their DIY tool kit. Unlike other oils used to lubricate engines or for fuel, the primary goal of penetrating oil is to loosen stuck nuts and bolts. These oils are very low viscosity which enables them to work their way inside stuck nuts and bolts through the tiniest cracks and fissures to provide extra lubrication. There are many brands of penetrating oils, but two of the best are Liquid Wrench (WD-40). Today, were going to compare Liquid Wrench vs WD-40 penetrating oils.
Crash Course: Penetrating Oil
Not all penetrating oil is created equal. Many different options are available from a variety of brands. And the actual make-up and effectiveness of each model is quite different. Our quick guide will help point you in the right direction of the best penetrating oil for your needs.
What Is Penetrating Oil?
The Family Handyman explains that penetrating oils are low-viscosity oils. Sometimes referred to as penetrating fluid, the low-viscosity of the oil allows it to easily seep through small cracks. After time, many nuts and bolts become fused shut. Often this is through the process of rusting which can lock two metal parts together.
When it comes to the nuts and bolts of machinery or other objects, the rust on these metal objects can make removing them or replacing them incredibly difficult. Penetrating oil simply needs to penetrate the rusted nuts to make it easier to remove them.
Pros And Cons
The benefits of penetrating oils are numerous. First and foremost, these low-viscosity oils provide great penetration and excellent lubrication, especially on rusted metal objects. In addition, they flow easily and are easy to use. A minimal amount of oil applied directly to the object in need of lubrication is all that is required.
These products are also anti-rusty and can clean dirt from objects. Finally, penetrating oil is generally safe to use. You can apply a little bit to your skin. There is very little smell.
This product has one real drawback: mess. Even though most products include a spraynozzle to direct the oil’s spray, it is possible that oily residues will remain. This video from ChrisFix shows you how to make homemade penetrating oil (although both Liquid Wrench and WD-40 are so cheap theres little reason not to buy them).
How To Use Penetrating Oil
The exact way to use penetrating oil depends on the specific task at hand. We will explain how to loosen a rusted bolt or nut because it is one of the most common uses. Simply install the precision spray straw, gently shake the can, and then spray the oil where you need it to go. Although you dont need to apply a ton of the oil, make sure to adequately coat the object in question. The Family Handyman has an excellent guide on how to use WD-40.
Penetrating Oil Showdown
Both products can be used in many settings including DIY projects, mechanic garages and professional jobsites. Let’s compare Liquid Wrench and WD-40.
Liquid Wrench Penetrating Oil
Liquid Wrench Penetrating Oil is available in several varieties. Not only do these varieties include specific applications, but also various sizes and application methods. This specific model is for penetrating and lubricating. Its versatile and has multiple uses. It is easy to use thanks to its precision spray straw.
Liquid Wrench, which has been in business for more than 75 year, is probably the most well-known penetrating oils brand. Their penetrating oils work very well, even on extremely rusted or otherwise corroded, metal parts. The ingredients are safe to use even when they come in contact with the skin. WD-40 uses a single formula. Liquid Wrench has six formulas that are specifically designed for different applications.
What We Like:
What We Do Not Like:
- It can be chaotic
WD-40 Penetrating Oil
It doesnt get any more classic than WD-40 Penetrating Oil. The most well-known penetrating/lubricating oil on the market, It is known just as much for its classic blue, yellow, and red packaging as it is its time-tested effectiveness. Although WD-40 only uses a single multi-use formula (unlike other brands, including Liquid Wrench, that create specific formulas), its highly effective no matter the task at hand.
It can be used to clean, degrease, and prevent rust just as well as for penetrating rusted metallic objects to help you get them out. WD-40 can be used in a variety of ways and sizes. There are also multi-pack discounts that will save you money. You never know when you will need it. This product is essential for every home toolkit.
What We Love:
What We Dont Like:
- It can be chaotic
Take A Bow
You cant go wrong with either Liquid Wrench or WD-40. Both products are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as loosening bolts or nuts. But which penetrating oil comes out on top? We have to hand it to WD-40. This is not only the most well-known and popular choice, but it’s also the most efficient.
