Induction heaters - are they worth it? (1 Viewer)

[GerhardUngerer]

I am dealing with quite a bit of rusty bolts. I have been applying flame, PB Blaster, ATF & Acetone, crying, and cussing in ample portions. I have also found that using the impact chisel on the bolt helps get things moving. But I break off a ton of bolts. And I cannot use the flame in spots where there is rubber or fuel.

So I have been looking at induction heaters. They heat just around the spot itself. I have done a ton of research. Now down to the choice. Cheap Chinese or expensive American made? The coils for all these are very expensive.

Are they worth it? What is your experience?



Cheap Chinese:

Amazon product ASIN B0851C6Q22
Says that it is 1000W, but actually only 660W. Will take 5 – 10 mins per bolt. Could be ok to try out, but might require an additional purchase.


Intermediate American

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B...SL7VE&linkId=41482dc6ad930a8a52e8db035387955f

Double the price of the cheap Chinese. So I can buy a cheap one, throw it away, and buy another cheap one. But. The cheap ones are still weaker than this option.


Expensive option – American

They come in price options, “Oh wow”, “Ouch”, and “DAAAANG”.

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B008XN9HO6/ref=emc_b_5_t

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01J5Y42XM/ref=emc_b_5_t

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B084KXQS7D/ref=emc_b_5_t

 

[snowglobe]

I’m in the wrong business.

 

[leonard_nemoy]

Will take 5 – 10 mins per bolt.

I would not want to wait 5-10 minutes a bolt.

Years ago I sold the crap out of these things on my snap on truck. I don't remember the brand but they were about $800.00 with a bunch of coils.

It would get a 1/2" bolt glowing red in about 30 seconds or less.


Things to remember.

They can also be used for more than rusty bolts. They can heat up bearing races and stuff like that.

They obviously only heat up metal that is magnetic. Won't work on aluminum or stainless.

 

[OTRAMM]

I've had a miniductor for probably close to a decade. It's awesome when you need it. I like the fact that there's no open flame in a greasy engine bay . Works great on manifold bolts, tie rod sleeves, bleeder screws, etc.

 

[KLF]

Bringing this back up, I was considering getting my son one of these for his birthday soon. Wondering if there's been any consensus on brand/model? Are they worth it? He works on rusty cars a lot.

 

[GerhardUngerer]

I bought this one and I love it.

Amazon product ASIN B0851C6Q22
Just goes through the coils quickly, but I started making my own.

 

[KLF]

Oh, I didn't realize the coils were a consumable. Thanks!

 

[GerhardUngerer]

Oh, I didn't realize the coils were a consumable. Thanks!

They are not. The coating comes off if you hold it against the metal. So maybe it is my poor technique, but I have been using it in really rusty, tight spaces. I just bought the fiberglass tubing on amazon and re-covering them. Also, the heating and cooling makes the copper soft over time. So I bought copper wire from Lowes. Very cheap and easy.

You will not be disappointed.