Liquid Wrench Beats Kroil, PB Blaster in Rusted Fastener Torque Test

Project Farm

Controlled breakout testing on seized Grade 8 studs shows budget $4 Liquid Wrench and homemade transmission fluid loosen rusted bolts better than $15 specialty penetrant AeroKroil.

AI-assisted summary of Which Penetrating Oil is Best? Let's find out! — original source. Check the original for full context.

Source published: 2018-04-16

Key ideas

In a controlled test of rusted Grade 8 wheel studs torqued to 100 ft-lbs, budget penetrant Liquid Wrench ($4/can) achieved the lowest breakout torque, outperforming all competitors. (8:41)
A DIY 50/50 mixture of synthetic automatic transmission fluid and acetone secured second place overall, though the host warned it damages paint, dissolves plastics and rubber, and penetrates standard shop gloves. (8:41)
Premium penetrant AeroKroil ($15/can) finished in last place among chemical treatments, trailing behind standard WD-40 and PB Blaster despite its cult reputation. (8:41)
Thermal expansion from an open flame torch easily beat every chemical penetrant tested, freeing frozen nuts with minimal torque. (7:47)

Detailed notes

## Background Published on YouTube by the Project Farm channel on April 16, 2018, this video tests whether expensive penetrating fluids justify their higher price tags. The host pits commercial options—including AeroKroil, Liquid Wrench, PB Blaster, Royal Purple, and WD-40—against a homemade ATF and acetone blend to determine which product frees rusted hardware with the least torque.

## TL;DR To evaluate penetrating oils under controlled conditions, the host torqued 30 rusted Grade 8 wheel lug studs to 100 ft-lbs on an angle iron rack. After measuring untreated baseline controls, he applied two rounds of each lubricant over a three-hour soak period before recording the breakout torque needed to free each nut. Budget-friendly Liquid Wrench captured first place, narrowly edging out a DIY 50/50 blend of synthetic automatic transmission fluid and acetone. Royal Purple and WD-40 finished in the middle, while PB Blaster and the premium $15 AeroKroil landed at the bottom of the rankings. An open flame torch easily outperformed every chemical treatment, demonstrating the unmatched efficacy of thermal expansion when safe to use.

## Atmosphere & style The video carries an earnest, methodical, DIY workshop vibe powered by rapid-fire narration and pragmatic skepticism. The host approaches the bench test like an unpretentious garage scientist, letting mechanical measurements and direct visual evidence speak louder than flashy manufacturer claims. Watching the experiment offers the satisfying, tension-building rhythm of hands-on wrenching, culminating in a surprising upset that upends workshop lore and exposes the diminishing returns of premium brand pricing.

## Bulletin - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) In a controlled test of rusted Grade 8 wheel studs torqued to 100 ft-lbs, budget penetrant Liquid Wrench ($4/can) achieved the lowest breakout torque, outperforming all competitors. - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) A DIY 50/50 mixture of synthetic automatic transmission fluid and acetone secured second place overall, though the host warned it damages paint, dissolves plastics and rubber, and penetrates standard shop gloves. - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) Premium penetrant AeroKroil ($15/can) finished in last place among chemical treatments, trailing behind standard WD-40 and PB Blaster despite its cult reputation. - [07:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=467s) Thermal expansion from an open flame torch easily beat every chemical penetrant tested, freeing frozen nuts with minimal torque.

## Key takeaways - [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=0s) Prior testing showed price does not consistently correlate with performance, prompting a direct test between budget penetrants, premium sprays, and DIY mixes. - [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=0s) To create uniform rust, brand-new 1/2-inch Grade 8 wheel lug studs were stripped of zinc coating with acid and soaked vertically in an oxidizer. - [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=0s) Lug nuts were deliberately threaded with their beveled edges facing down against the angle iron to eliminate friction variables caused by uneven surface rust. - [02:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=151s) Four unlubricated rusted bolts were initially tested as a control group to measure natural breakout resistance before chemical application. - [02:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=151s) Six chemical solutions were evaluated: 50/50 synthetic ATF and acetone, AeroKroil ($15), Liquid Wrench ($4), PB Blaster, Royal Purple Maxfilm ($13), and standard WD-40. - [04:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=283s) One-hour surface inspections showed varying evaporation rates, with PB Blaster drying quickly while WD-40 and the ATF/acetone mix retained noticeable surface films. - [04:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=283s) Despite advertising claims from brands like Liquid Wrench, none of the penetrating oils visibly dissolved or reduced the iron oxide rust on the studs. - [04:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=283s) Every penetrant received a second application before being allowed to soak for a total dwell time of three hours prior to torque measurement. - [07:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=467s) Applying an open flame torch to rusted nuts caused rapid thermal expansion that broke the rust bond far more effectively than any chemical penetrant. - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) Liquid Wrench won the overall chemical competition, delivering the lowest breakout torque despite being the cheapest commercial spray at $4 per can. - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) The DIY 50/50 ATF and acetone mix placed second, serving as an effective low-cost penetrant with significant material safety caveats. - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) WD-40 finished fourth overall, outperforming specialized penetrating formulas like PB Blaster and AeroKroil. - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) AeroKroil ranked last among all tested chemical penetrants, failing to justify its $15 premium price tag.

## Detailed walkthrough ### [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=0s) Setting Up the Penetrating Fluid Showdown

The host opens by questioning whether premium price tags actually translate to superior performance in the workshop. Reflecting on previous experiments, he notes that super glue testing revealed chemical ingredients mattered significantly, with the least expensive formula outperforming the costliest brands. Conversely, duct tape testing demonstrated a direct correlation where the most expensive rolls easily beat budget options. Penetrating fluids present a similar pricing puzzle: can a $15 specialty spray like AeroKroil genuinely outperform $4 to $5 shelf staples or even a DIY mix of automatic transmission fluid and acetone?

To find out, the host designs a controlled test using thirty 1/2-inch Grade 8 wheel lug studs torqued into angle iron to 100 ft-lbs. Recognizing that natural rusting on used hardware is never uniform, he purchased brand-new studs and lug nuts, stripped their protective zinc coating with a powerful acid, and applied a strong oxidizer with the bolts oriented vertically so the corrosive agent seeped evenly into the thread channels. To minimize erratic friction, he deliberately threaded the nuts with the beveled end facing the steel plate. As the host explains, “I didn't want to put the flat edge down because the rust between the flat edge and the steel could end up causing some extra drag on some bolts than others.”

- Hardware: 1/2-inch Grade 8 wheel lug studs and nuts torqued to 100 ft-lbs. - Preparation: Zinc coating stripped via acid, then treated with oxidizer in a vertical position. - Orientation: Beveled edge of the lug nut placed down to reduce surface area drag. - Home brew mixture: 50/50 ratio consisting of one part synthetic automatic transmission fluid and one part acetone.

[02:31](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=151s) Baseline Control and Product Application

The experiment begins by establishing a baseline. The first four untreated, rusted bolts serve as the control group to gauge the raw torque required to break them free without any chemical intervention. After gathering these readings, the angle iron rack is detached and placed vertically so the penetrating oils can be applied and allowed to soak into the threads over several hours. The untreated control bolts are covered to preserve their rust level, providing a visual benchmark to observe whether any chemical actually dissolves rust.

The host methodically introduces each lubricant and its marketing promises as he applies them. First is the homemade ATF and acetone blend, followed by AeroKroil, the most expensive product in the lineup at $15 a can. Kroil boasts a dedicated following and claims to creep into spaces as narrow as one millionth of an inch. Liquid Wrench claims to dissolve rust and cut through heavy grease. PB Blaster markets itself as the number-one selling penetrant, boasting a specialized capillary action to free frozen parts. Royal Purple Maxfilm represents synthetic penetrant technology designed for high wear protection, while classic WD-40 offers water displacement and multi-purpose lubrication. Regarding his choice to test the premium brand, the host states: “This stuff seems to have quite a following. There's a lot of positive comments on it. So, I went ahead and spent the $15 just to test what it's capable of doing.”

- Baseline: Four unlubricated control bolts torqued to measure natural breakout resistance. - Products tested: - 50/50 Synthetic ATF and Acetone mix - AeroKroil ($15/can; claims capillary penetration down to 0.000001 inch) - Liquid Wrench ($4/can; claims to cut grease and dissolve rust) - PB Blaster (capillary action formula for seized parts) - Royal Purple Maxfilm ($13/can; synthetic multipurpose penetrant/lubricant) - WD-40 (standard multi-use water-displacing formula)

[04:43](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=283s) One-Hour Observations and the Second Application

After allowing the chemicals to soak for one hour, the host inspects the bolts to evaluate residue, evaporation rates, and visible rust reduction. The ATF and acetone mixture leaves a heavy, oily layer behind, as the volatile acetone evaporates while the transmission fluid continues working into the thread passages. In contrast, both AeroKroil and Liquid Wrench appear mostly dry on the surface, having either evaporated or seeped deep into the threads. Despite Liquid Wrench's marketing claims, the host notes that neither product visibly reduced or dissolved the iron oxide on the bolt faces.

PB Blaster leaves the least residual film of the commercial penetrants, drying out almost completely. Royal Purple Maxfilm retains an oily coating on the threads, while WD-40 shows minimal evaporation, maintaining a wet fluid layer over the entire nut. To give every formula the maximum opportunity to work into the seized threads, a freshly shaken second dose of each penetrant is applied across the rack, and the assembly is left to soak for a total elapsed time of three hours.

```mermaid flowchart TD accTitle: Penetrating Fluid Testing Workflow accDescr: Sequence of steps from bolt preparation and control testing through two rounds of fluid application, soaking, torque measurement, and heat testing.

subgraph Prep["1. Hardware Preparation"] A["Grade 8 Studs Torqued to 100 ft-lbs"] --> B["Acid Strips Zinc Coating"] B --> C["Vertical Oxidizer Bath Induces Rust"] end

subgraph Soaking["2. Lubrication & Dwell Time"] D["Breakout Baseline on 4 Control Bolts"] --> E["First Chemical Application"] E --> F["1-Hour Inspection"] F --> G["Second Chemical Application"] G --> H["3-Hour Total Dwell Time"] end

subgraph Breakout["3. Mechanical Testing"] H --> I["Torque Wrench Breakout on 28 Studs"] I --> J["Oxy/Propane Torch Applied to 2 Spares"] end

Prep --> Soaking Soaking --> Breakout ```

[07:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=467s) Torque Testing and Torch Heat Comparison

Once the three-hour soak concludes, the angle iron rack is bolted firmly back down to the workstation to begin mechanical breakout testing using a torque wrench across all 28 test studs. As each nut is broken loose, the force needed to overcome the seized threads is recorded.

With two spare studs remaining from the original set of thirty, the host explores whether thermal expansion outperforms chemical soaking. Bringing out a torch, he heats the rusted nut directly before attempting removal. The heat causes the nut to expand away from the stud threads and degrades the rust bond almost instantly. Reflecting on shop experience, the host notes, “In the past, whenever I've ever had a stuck bolt, I always applied the torch and it seems to work really well.” The torch effortlessly frees the nut with significantly less torque than any unheated fastener.

- Heat test: Applied an open flame torch to the two remaining rusted studs. - Mechanism: Thermal expansion broke the mechanical rust lock far more easily than chemical penetration alone.

[08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) Final Results, Ranking, and Safety Warnings

The final torque numbers demonstrate that chemical penetrants undeniably assist in breaking loose frozen fasteners. The host admits he had approached the test with healthy skepticism: “Now, I was sort of skeptical because I haven't really seen a whole lot of results from using penetrating fluids in the past, but you never really know until you actually do a study like this and actually see that it works.”

The results reveal an upset: the cheapest commercial option on the table took top honors. Liquid Wrench, priced at only $4 a can, required the lowest average breakout torque, beating out the entire field. The homemade 50/50 mix of automatic transmission fluid and acetone took a close second place, proving to be an exceptionally cost-effective alternative. However, the host issues an important safety warning regarding the DIY brew: acetone is aggressive, poses health risks, will rapidly degrade paint, dissolves certain plastics and rubber components, and penetrates right through standard rubber shop gloves.

Royal Purple Maxfilm finished in third place, offering respectable performance but poor value at $13 a can. WD-40 surprised by taking fourth place, outperforming both PB Blaster (fifth) and AeroKroil (sixth). The poor showing from AeroKroil was particularly striking given its premium $15 price tag and stellar reputation among mechanics. While open-flame torch heat proved superior to all chemical treatments, the host acknowledges that heat is not always safe or feasible around fuel lines, wiring, or tight spaces. He wraps up by thanking viewers for their video suggestions, emphasizing that community feedback directly drives the channel's test lineup.

## Notable quotes > [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) I was sort of skeptical because I haven't really seen a whole lot of results from using penetrating fluids in the past, but you never really know until you actually do a study like this and actually see that it works. — host

> [07:47](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=467s) In the past, whenever I've ever had a stuck bolt, I always applied the torch and it seems to work really well. — host

## Mentioned AeroKroil, Liquid Wrench, PB Blaster, Project Farm, Royal Purple, Royal Purple Maxfilm, WD-40

## Video description This test demonstrated that not all penetrating oils are equal. Also, paying more doesn't result in better performance. In this showdown, ATF/Acetone mix, AeroKroil, Liquid Wrench, PB Blaster, Royal Purple and WD-40 are put to the test. Results: Liquid Wrench came out on top, following by ATF/Acetone, Royal Purple, WD-40, PB Blaster, and AeroKroil.

Products Tested In This Video (in no particular order): AeroKroil: https://amzn.to/3jaWGiJ Liquid Wrench: https://amzn.to/2Z53rOC PB Blaster: https://amzn.to/31igfPW Royal Purple: https://amzn.to/2QfbuA6 WD-40: https://amzn.to/2Eh0BLY

Videography Equipment: Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber-shot Digital Still Camera: https://amzn.to/2YdXvPw Canon 70D Camera: https://amzn.to/31b5Gy0 Azden Microphone: https://amzn.to/34d3DLE Go Pro Bundle: https://amzn.to/31aince

➡ Thank you very much for supporting the channel: https://www.patreon.com/projectfarm ➡ An easy way to find past videos along with products tested: http://bit.ly/2FCrBpk A big thanks to Jim for putting this together. ➡ Merch: www.Project-Farm.com ➡ Click here if you'd like to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2rzsm1Qi6N1X-wuOg_p0Ng?sub_confirmation=1 ➡ As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This video is only for entertainment purposes. If you rely on the information portrayed in this video, you assume the responsibility for the results. Project Farm LLC

[Source](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs)

中文简报

锈蚀紧固件扭矩测试：Liquid Wrench击败Kroil与PB Blaster 对卡死8级双头螺栓的对照松脱测试显示，售价4美元的平价Liquid Wrench和自制变速箱油在松动锈蚀螺栓方面的效果优于售价15美元的专业渗透剂AeroKroil。为了在受控条件下评估渗透油的效果，主持人在角铁架上将30根锈蚀的8级车轮螺栓拧紧至100英尺-磅的扭矩。在测量了未处理基准对照组的数据后，他在三小时的浸润期内对每种润滑剂各进行了两轮施涂，随后记录了拧松每个螺母所需的突破扭矩。经济实惠的Liquid Wrench夺得第一名，以微弱优势击败了由全合成自动变速箱油和丙酮以50/50比例混合的自制配方。Royal Purple和WD-40位列中游，而PB Blaster和售价15美元的高端AeroKroil则排名垫底。明火喷灯的表现大幅超越了所有化学处理剂，证明了在安全前提下热胀冷缩无可匹敌的有效性。在将锈蚀8级车轮螺栓拧紧至100英尺-磅的对照测试中，售价4美元一罐的平价渗透剂Liquid Wrench录得最低的突破扭矩，表现优于所有竞争对手。 (8:41) 由全合成自动变速箱油和丙酮按50/50配比自制的混合液位列总评第二，但主持人警告称该配方会损坏车漆、溶解塑料与橡胶，并能穿透普通车间手套。 (8:41) 尽管享有极高声誉，但售价15美元一罐的高端渗透剂AeroKroil在化学处理剂中排名垫底，落后于普通WD-40和PB Blaster。 (8:41) 明火喷灯产生的热膨胀效果轻松击败了测试中的所有化学渗透剂，仅需极小扭矩即可松开咬死的螺母。 (7:47)

Detailed notes — zh

## Background 本视频由知名评测频道 Project Farm 于 2018 年 4 月 16 日发布在 YouTube 平台。视频简介指出，并非所有渗透润滑油性能都相同，且价格昂贵并不代表效果更好；本次测试横向对比了 ATF/丙酮自制混合液、AeroKroil、Liquid Wrench、PB Blaster、Royal Purple 以及 WD-40 六款产品松脱生锈螺栓的实际表现。 ## TL;DR 为了验证不同渗透润滑剂的真实解锈能力，主持人使用 30 颗经过酸洗和强氧化处理的人工严重锈蚀 8 级车轮螺栓，在 100 ft-lbs 初始扭矩下展开受控对比实验。经过施涂药剂并静置浸透长达 3 小时后，使用专业数字扭矩扳手测量各组螺母拆卸所需的突破扭矩，并补充测试了喷火枪明火加热的物理松脱效果。测试结果彻底打破了“高价即优质”的刻板印象：售价仅 4 美元的平价产品 Liquid Wrench 斩获全场第一，自调 ATF/丙酮混合液紧随其后夺得亚军，而售价高达 15 美元的明星大厂产品 AeroKroil 却意外垫底。 ## Atmosphere & style 整个视频展现出 Project Farm 标志性的硬核工匠气息与严谨求实的极客精神，节奏紧凑务实且毫无废话。没有浮夸的花招，镜头聚焦在斑驳的生锈角钢、数字扳手的冰冷数值跳动以及金属咬合断裂的刺耳摩擦声中，带给观众极强的实操代入感。当最便宜的开架产品彻底击败昂贵神话、自制土方展现惊人威力时，实验结果呈现出强烈的反差感与颠覆性，让整场评测在理性客观中充满了令人信服的解密快感。 ## Bulletin - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) 横向测试表明价格与渗透润滑油性能并无正相关，售价仅约4美元的Liquid Wrench击败全场夺冠，而每罐15美元的知名品牌AeroKroil表现垫底。 - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) 全合成ATF（自动变速箱油）与丙酮按1:1调配的自制混合液表现优异，降阻效果仅次于Liquid Wrench斩获亚军，但存在腐蚀车漆及橡胶件的安全隐患。 - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) 非专业渗透剂WD-40表现出慢挥发特性并拿下第四名，其实测松脱扭矩成绩甚至优于老牌专业选手PB Blaster和AeroKroil。 - [06:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=367s) 气焊火枪高温加热螺母的热胀冷缩法在降低拆卸阻力上优于所有化学药剂，但受机舱底盘狭小空间及明火安全限制，无法完全替代化学渗透油。 ## Key takeaways - [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=0s) 评测旨在验证渗透润滑剂领域是否存在高价等同高品质的规律，特别对比了15美元高档产品与4至5美元大众产品及民间自制配方。 - [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=0s) 为杜绝自然锈蚀的不确定性，测试采用30颗规格统一的1/2英寸8级车轮螺栓，统一施加100英尺·磅扭矩并经过严格强酸脱镀与强氧化剂做旧处理。 - [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=0s) 螺栓组装时特意将螺母倒角面朝下紧贴角钢，以最大程度减少平面接触带来的摩擦变量干扰。 - [01:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=114s) 测试首先通过4颗未施加任何润滑剂的生锈螺栓作为空白对照组，确立卡死状态下的基准拆卸突破扭矩。 - [04:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=281s) 静置浸透1小时后各产品呈现出截然不同的挥发特性：PB Blaster最为干瘪，Liquid Wrench和Kroil表面基本干燥，而WD-40保持了最长久的湿润油膜。 - [04:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=281s) 肉眼观察未能证实Liquid Wrench宣传的“溶解铁锈”化学特性，其表面外观与未标榜溶锈的Kroil无明显差异。 - [04:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=281s) 全部螺栓在施加两道药剂并浸透满3小时后，使用专业数字扭矩扳手记录打破静摩擦死锁瞬间的峰值突破扭矩。 - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) 测试数据证明所有渗透剂均显著优于不喷润滑油的对照组，有效打破了“渗透剂无用”的质疑。 - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) 平价产品Liquid Wrench以最低拆卸扭矩拿下全场第一名，展现出极高的性价比。 - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) ATF加丙酮自制混合液位居次席，但丙酮对车漆、塑料和橡胶密封件具有强腐蚀性，且能渗透常规橡胶手套，使用时需极度注意安全防护。 - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) 标价高昂的Royal Purple Maxfilm仅名列第三，WD-40位列第四，均压制了排名第五的专业渗透剂PB Blaster。 - [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) 宣传能渗入百万分之一英寸微缝的AeroKroil在实际拆卸扭矩对比中名列末位，实测表现与宣传溢价严重脱节。 - [06:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=367s) 使用喷火枪对紧固件加热实现热胀冷缩是破坏金属锈蚀界面的终极物理方案，拆卸手感与阻力降幅显著优于所有化学手段。 ## Detailed walkthrough ### [00:00](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=0s) 实验初衷与锈蚀螺栓的严谨准备很多消费者在选购日常维修化学品时，往往默认价格与品质直接挂钩。主持人指出，如果能换来显著更优的性能，多花一点钱完全是可以接受的，但在渗透润滑油（penetrating fluids）领域，这种价格差异究竟能否带来实质性的效果区别，一直存在争议。回顾过去的测评经验：在强力胶（super glue）测试中，成分起到了决定性作用，最便宜的品牌反而全面超越了昂贵对手；而在布基胶带（duct tape）测试中，情况则完全相反，价格越高的品牌表现越好，售价与性能之间存在直接的正相关关系。面对市场上每罐售价高达 15 美元的 AeroKroil，以及售价仅在 4 至 5 美元之间的常规大众品牌，这个领域究竟遵循哪种规律，便成了一个极具实际意义的课题。为了验证商业配方是否真有不可替代的独门绝技，本次测评还加入了一款民间广为流传的自制配方（home brew）——由全合成自动变速箱油（ATF）与丙酮（Acetone）按 1:1 的体积比混合而成，看看这种低成本混合液是否能够匹敌甚至击败专业大厂产品。主持人坦言自己没有价值数百万美元的高端实验室，但手头准备了 30 颗严重生锈的螺栓和一大批渗透润滑剂。为了确保测试的公平与可重复性，他放弃了使用自然锈蚀程度不均的废旧零件，而是全新采购了规格为 1/2 英寸的 8 级（Grade 8）车轮螺栓与配套凸缘螺母，并在初始状态下统一施加了 100 英尺·磅（ft-lbs）的紧固扭矩。随后，他使用强酸彻底去除了表面的镀锌防锈层，并将螺栓垂直放置，淋上强氧化剂使药剂顺着螺纹均匀向下渗透，从而制造出一致且深层的锈蚀。在螺栓装配细节上，主持人特意将凸缘螺母的倒角面（beveled end）朝下紧贴角钢，避免使用平整接触面，防止螺母平面与钢板之间的锈层残留造成不可控的额外阻力差异。 “Getting wheel lug studs to rust equally isn't a possible thing to do, so I decided to buy new wheel lug studs and lug nuts for this test.” 主持人特别强调了这套制备受控锈蚀样本的必要性。 - **测试对象规格**：1/2 英寸 8 级（Grade 8）车轮螺栓及配套螺母。 - **预紧扭矩基准**：装配扭矩统一预设为 100 英尺·磅（ft-lbs）。 - **人工除层与做旧工艺**：强酸剥离表面镀锌层，垂直状态下施加强氧化剂形成均一锈蚀。 - **接触面控制**：螺母倒角面朝下接触钢板，最大程度减少摩擦接触面积的随机干扰。 - **自制混合配方**：1 份全合成 ATF（自动变速箱油）+ 1 份丙酮（Acetone）。 --- ### [01:54](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=114s) 对照组测试与六款渗透剂特性介绍在正式展开渗透对比前，测试基准必须首先锚定。主持人将角钢前端的最初 4 颗生锈螺栓设定为空白对照组（control bolts），在未施加任何润滑剂的情况下直接测量拧松所需的突破扭矩。测出基准数值后，他将固定角钢拆下并置于垂直状态，随后在剩余的测试螺栓上分别施加不同的测试产品，并用遮盖物将空白对照组保护起来，以便在测试末尾对比观察金属表面的锈斑形态，检验是否有产品能够真正做到化学溶解铁锈。 ```mermaid flowchart TD accTitle: 渗透润滑剂横向评测流程 accDescr: 评测从基准设定、产品施涂浸泡到扭矩测试与火枪加热的全过程流程图 subgraph S1["基准设定与准备"] A["30颗螺栓统一做锈并施加预紧力"] --> B["测试前4颗作为空白对照组"] end subgraph S2["药剂施涂与渗透"] C["垂直悬挂并施加六组测试药剂"] --> D["静置浸透1小时观察残留油膜"] D --> E["补喷第二道药剂继续浸透至3小时"] end subgraph S3["扭矩拆卸与对比测试"] F["固定角钢进行扭矩扳手拆卸测量"] G["剩余2颗螺栓进行气焊火枪加热测试"] end B --> C E --> F F --> G ``` 参与测试的药剂涵盖了不同价格区间与宣传卖点： 1. **ATF 与丙酮混合液**：利用丙酮强大的稀释与渗透挥发特性，携带高润滑性的全合成传动液分子快速潜入螺纹微孔。 2. **Kroil（AeroKroil）**：每罐高达 15 美元，是全场最昂贵的明星产品，在工业圈拥有大量忠实拥趸。官方宣称具备极佳的润滑、除锈、清洁与防锈综合能力，其最引人瞩目的宣称是具备极强的微观渗透能力，能爬进小至百万分之一英寸（1/1,000,000 inch）的极微小金属缝隙。 3. **Liquid Wrench**：主打极高性价比，包装明确宣称能够溶解铁锈并穿透陈年厚重油脂。 4. **PB Blaster**：全美销量领先的知名老牌渗透剂，号称能利用其独特的毛细作用（capillary action）全方位包裹并瓦解锈死卡顿的紧固件，兼顾长效抗腐蚀保护。 5. **Royal Purple Maxfilm**：以全合成配方为核心卖点的高端润滑油品牌，宣称能提供优异的抗磨损保护层，阻隔湿气并强力松脱生锈锁死的金属构件。 6. **WD-40（Water Displacement 40）**：家喻户晓的多用途喷雾，定位于排水、防锈、轻度润滑及常规渗透。 “It says it can actually creep into openings as small as 1 millionth of an inch.” 主持人在介绍 Kroil 时特别提及了这一在机械维修界广为流传的神级宣称。 --- ### [04:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=281s) 渗透观察与二次补喷各组药剂施涂完毕并在垂直状态下浸透整整 1 小时后，主持人对各个螺栓的表面残留状态进行了详细的肉眼比对。此时不同化学配方的挥发速度与附着特性呈现出巨大差异。首先是自制的 ATF/丙酮混合液，丙酮挥发后，表面留下了清晰可辨的浓厚油脂薄膜，主持人分析这说明自动变速箱油仍附着在金属表层，并有充足的时间持续向更深层的细密螺纹缝隙内部渗透。相比之下，价格高昂的 Kroil 和以除锈著称的 Liquid Wrench 表面已经基本干燥，表层液体要么快速挥发殆尽，要么已经完全顺着螺纹缝隙被毛细管吸纳到了内部；针对 Liquid Wrench 所宣称的“溶解铁锈”功能，主持人仔细查看后表示，仅从肉眼观察，并没有看到铁锈有明显被化学分解或溶脱的痕迹，其表面与 Kroil 相比没有实质上的区别。在其余几款产品中，PB Blaster 的挥发情况最为干瘪，残余油膜厚度甚至不及 Liquid Wrench 和 Kroil，表面呈现明显的干燥感。而主打全合成概念的 Royal Purple 则明显在螺母边缘与外露螺纹上留下了较厚的一层合成油液膜。最为特殊的当属 WD-40，经过一个小时的静置，螺栓表面依然湿润油滑，其挥发速度显著慢于其他几款专用渗透剂。为了让各款药剂达到极限的渗透效果，主持人重新摇匀自制的 ATF/丙酮配方，并对全部测试组逐一喷涂了第二剂渗透油。随后，整个测试样本继续静置浸泡，直至总渗透浸泡时长达到 3 小时整，随后将角钢牢固平放锁紧在操作台上，正式进入拆卸测力环节。 “This stuff just doesn't evaporate off as quickly as the other ones.” 主持人针对 WD-40 经久不散的油膜表现评价道。 - **1 小时观察状态对比**： - **ATF / 丙酮**：丙酮蒸发，留下厚重油膜，持续渗透。 - **Kroil**：表面基本干燥，药剂已深入螺纹或大部分挥发。 - **Liquid Wrench**：表面干燥，未见明显肉眼可见的“溶锈”剥落。 - **PB Blaster**：表面最干，残留油膜最少。 - **Royal Purple**：保留有清晰的合成润滑层。 - **WD-40**：挥发极其缓慢，表面残留大量液膜。 - **浸透流程**：施涂两遍药剂，总浸泡时间达到 3 小时。 --- ### [06:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=367s) 拆卸力矩测试与火枪加热对比实验在长达 3 小时的充分浸泡渗透后，主持人使用经校准的专业数字扭矩扳手，对安装在厚重角钢上的生锈螺母进行逐一逆时针拆卸测试，实时抓取打破静摩擦死锁瞬间的峰值突破扭矩（breakaway torque）。前 4 颗空白对照组螺栓在完全没有润滑剂介入的情况下，生锈咬死的螺母需要极高的扭矩才能拧脱，这一步直接确立了本次测试的高阻力基准。随后，主持人依次测试了施加各款药剂的螺栓，伴随着金属剧烈干涩摩擦的断裂声，不同药剂对降低阻力、松脱卡死构件的实际功效直接通过一组组峰值扭矩数值量化体现。在 30 颗预制螺栓中，常规药剂评测共消耗了 28 颗，角钢末端还剩余最后 2 颗处于相同严重锈蚀状态的备用螺栓。主持人决定利用这两颗样本，验证汽修界流传已久的终极手段——热胀冷缩法（Torching / Thermal expansion）。在以往的实际车辆维修中，每当遇到任何顽固卡死、化学药剂无法奏效的螺栓，使用气焊火枪对螺母进行高温烘烤几乎百发百中。他掏出便携式喷火枪，对准螺母四周进行均匀明火加热，将螺母烧至极高温度，利用金属热胀破坏锈蚀结晶层。待加热完成后立刻套上扭矩扳手进行拆卸，数字扳手反馈的数值骤降，拆卸手感平顺无比，证明了物理热变形在破坏咬死界面上具有压倒性的物理学优势。 “In the past, whenever I've ever had a stuck bolt, I always applied the torch and it seems to work really well.” 主持人回顾自己以往的处理经验时强调道。 --- ### [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) 测试结果排名、成本效益分析与安全警示对所有拆卸数据进行汇总统计后，结果展现出了极具颠覆性的结论。在对付严重生锈的紧固件时，“有做防范总比什么都不做强（Something is better than nothing）”，所有测试产品表现出的扭矩数据均显著低于未施加任何药剂的空白对照组，证明各类渗透剂并非智商税，其毛细浸润与润滑作用真实有效。但在产品的性价比维度上，评测出现了极大的戏剧性反转：售价仅 4 美元一罐的平价产品 Liquid Wrench 在突破扭矩控制上全面击败了所有对手，稳夺全场第一桂冠；紧随其后夺得亚军的是由车主自己调配的 ATF/丙酮混合液，其降阻性能极其强悍，仅次于 Liquid Wrench。 “However, when it comes to value, it's very clear that some products are better than others and in this case, the least expensive product at $4 a can, Liquid Wrench, beat all the competition.” 主持人直截了当地公布了性能与价格完全倒挂的最终结果。 | 排名 | 参赛产品 | 预估单罐价格 | 综合表现点评 | |:---: |:--- |:---: |:--- | | **1** | **Liquid Wrench** | 约 $4 | 全场最佳，以最低成本提供了最出色的松脱扭矩表现。 | | **2** | **ATF + 丙酮自制混合液** | 极低（自调） | 性能极其强悍稳居第二，但存在溶胀腐蚀车用配件的安全风险。 | | **3** | **Royal Purple Maxfilm** | 约 $13 | 表现中规中矩，但相对于其高昂售价，拿下第三名性价比较低。 | | **4** | **WD-40** | 约 $4 - $5 | 虽非专用渗透剂，但表现可圈可点，成绩优于两位专业老将。 | | **5** | **PB Blaster** | 约 $4 - $5 | 老牌销量冠军表现欠佳，挥发较快，位列倒数第二。 | | **6** | **AeroKroil** | 约 $15 | 全场最贵且最负盛名，但实际拆卸扭矩表现却排在榜底。 | 针对斩获第二名的 ATF 与丙酮自制配方，主持人向观众发出了严厉的安全警示：丙酮属于高挥发性、高腐蚀性的烈性有机溶剂，调配与施工时必须极其谨慎。丙酮会迅速破坏并软化汽车车漆表面，严重溶胀或融化周边的橡胶衬套、塑料管路，并且能够轻易渗透穿透普通的薄款橡胶手套。操作者即使佩戴手套防护，也可能在短时间内遭受化学品直接接触皮肤的危险。在排行榜后半段，售价高达 13 美元的 Royal Purple 位列第三，虽然表现不错，但对不起其高昂定价；而并非定位专业渗透剂的 WD-40 则令人惊喜地斩获第四名，击败了名气斐然的 PB Blaster 以及垫底的 Kroil。主持人坦言，自己花 15 美元购买 Kroil 时曾对它寄予厚望，以为能轻松拿下第一或第二名，现实反差令人深思。最后，尽管喷灯明火加热的降阻效果凌驾于所有化学药剂之上，但在实际狭小的机舱底盘空间或油电混合环境中，明火并不总是具备实操条件，因此高性价比的渗透剂依然是不可或缺的拆卸利器。 - **明火加热效果总结**：物理加热扩张是全场阻力最低的解法，但受制于环境安全与工时限制，无法完全替代罐装渗透剂。 - **丙酮使用安全警告**： - 易损毁车身原厂车漆与透明涂层。 - 严重侵蚀、溶胀塑料饰板和天然/合成橡胶密封件。 - 能迅速渗透部分常规橡胶防护手套，需严密防范经皮毒性。 ## Notable quotes > [08:41](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=521s) However, when it comes to value, it's very clear that some products are better than others and in this case, the least expensive product at $4 a can, Liquid Wrench, beat all the competition. — Project Farm 主持人 > [06:07](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs&t=367s) In the past, whenever I've ever had a stuck bolt, I always applied the torch and it seems to work really well. — Project Farm 主持人 ## Mentioned Project Farm, Liquid Wrench, AeroKroil, PB Blaster, Royal Purple Maxfilm, WD-40, ATF（自动变速箱油）, 丙酮（Acetone） ## Video description This test demonstrated that not all penetrating oils are equal. Also, paying more doesn't result in better performance. In this showdown, ATF/Acetone mix, AeroKroil, Liquid Wrench, PB Blaster, Royal Purple and WD-40 are put to the test. Results: Liquid Wrench came out on top, following by ATF/Acetone, Royal Purple, WD-40, PB Blaster, and AeroKroil. Products Tested In This Video (in no particular order): AeroKroil: https://amzn.to/3jaWGiJ Liquid Wrench: https://amzn.to/2Z53rOC PB Blaster: https://amzn.to/31igfPW Royal Purple: https://amzn.to/2QfbuA6 WD-40: https://amzn.to/2Eh0BLY Videography Equipment: Sony DSC-RX10 III Cyber-shot Digital Still Camera: https://amzn.to/2YdXvPw Canon 70D Camera: https://amzn.to/31b5Gy0 Azden Microphone: https://amzn.to/34d3DLE Go Pro Bundle: https://amzn.to/31aince ➡ Thank you very much for supporting the channel: https://www.patreon.com/projectfarm ➡ An easy way to find past videos along with products tested: http://bit.ly/2FCrBpk A big thanks to Jim for putting this together. ➡ Merch: www.Project-Farm.com ➡ Click here if you'd like to subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2rzsm1Qi6N1X-wuOg_p0Ng?sub_confirmation=1 ➡ As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. This video is only for entertainment purposes. If you rely on the information portrayed in this video, you assume the responsibility for the results. Project Farm LLC [Source](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xUEob2oAKVs)

Source quotes

[8:41] Project Farm 主持人: However, when it comes to value, it's very clear that some products are better than others and in this case, the least expensive product at $4 a can, Liquid Wrench, beat all the competition. [6:07] Project Farm 主持人: In the past, whenever I've ever had a stuck bolt, I always applied the torch and it seems to work really well.

Source quotes

[8:41] host: I was sort of skeptical because I haven't really seen a whole lot of results from using penetrating fluids in the past, but you never really know until you actually do a study like this and actually see that it works. [7:47] host: In the past, whenever I've ever had a stuck bolt, I always applied the torch and it seems to work really well.

Original transcript

[0:00] If you're like me, it's not a big deal [0:01] to spend a little bit more money if I'm [0:03] getting a lot better value. But when it [0:05] comes to penetrating fluids, does it [0:07] really make any difference? Now in past [0:09] testing with super glue, what we [0:11] discovered was ingredients make a huge [0:13] difference and the least expensive super [0:15] glue happened to outperform the rest of [0:17] the other brands. With regard to duct [0:19] tape, what we saw was the opposite. The [0:21] most expensive brands outperformed the [0:23] least expensive brands and there was a [0:25] direct correlation between price and [0:26] performance. So, will we discover the [0:29] same trend with these penetrating [0:31] fluids? In one instance, Kroil is $15 a [0:34] can compared to several of these other [0:36] products which are around $4 to $5 a [0:38] can. Also, we'll be using a homemade [0:40] brew of automatic transmission fluid and [0:42] acetone to see if it can perform as well [0:44] or even better than these other brands. [0:47] I don't have a multi-million dollar lab, [0:48] but what I do have is 30 very rusty lug [0:50] nuts and a whole bunch of penetrating [0:52] fluids. So, let's go ahead and get the [0:53] testing underway. So, these are 1/2 in [0:55] grade 8 wheel lug studs torqued to 100 [0:57] ft lbs. Getting wheel lug studs to rust [1:00] equally isn't a possible thing to do, so [1:02] I decided to buy new wheel lug studs and [1:04] lug nuts for this test. Then I used a [1:07] powerful acid to remove the zinc [1:08] coating. Then I used a powerful oxidizer [1:10] while the wheel lug studs were in a [1:11] vertical position so that the oxidizer [1:14] would flow down into the threads [1:15] equally. Also, the beveled end of the [1:17] lug nut is touching the steel. I didn't [1:19] want to put the flat edge down because [1:21] the rust between the flat edge and the [1:24] steel could end up causing some extra [1:26] drag on some bolts than others. So, to [1:29] me this seemed like a better way to do [1:31] the testing is to have the beveled end [1:32] down to minimize the surface exposure. [1:34] I'll be using a synthetic automatic [1:36] transmission fluid for our home brew [1:38] penetrating fluid. I'm going to use one [1:40] part of acetone and one part of [1:42] automatic transmission fluid. [1:54] So, what I'm going to do is use the [1:55] first four bolts as our control. Once we [1:57] know what the torque readings are, I'm [1:59] going to disconnect this angle iron, put [2:01] it in a vertical position, apply the [2:03] penetrants to each of these wheel lug [2:05] studs, and allow it to soak for several [2:08] hours. [2:31] I'm about to go ahead and start applying [2:32] these different penetrating fluids. [2:34] These are the four bolts we just worked [2:36] with. What I'm going to do is go ahead [2:37] and cover these up so we can compare the [2:39] amount of rust in to see if any of these [2:40] products are actually dissolving rust. [2:43] I'm going to start first with the [2:44] acetone automatic transmission fluid [2:46] mix. [2:57] This is Kroil. This stuff is $15 a can. [2:59] This is the most expensive product we'll [3:01] be testing. This stuff seems to have [3:03] quite a following. There's a lot of [3:04] positive comments on it. So, I went [3:06] ahead and spent the $15 just to test [3:08] what it's capable of doing. It's [3:10] designed to lubricate, remove rust. It's [3:12] also for cleaning and it's a rust [3:14] preventer. The big claim this product [3:16] makes though is that it loosens from [3:17] frozen metal parts. It says it can [3:19] actually creep into openings as small as [3:21] 1 millionth of an inch. [3:31] This is Liquid Wrench. They claim it can [3:33] dissolve rust and cuts through grease. [3:45] So, this is PB Blaster. It's supposed to [3:47] be the number one selling penetrant. [3:49] It's supposed to break free rusted and [3:51] frozen parts, protect against further [3:52] rust and corrosion, and attack rust from [3:54] all angles using their unique capillary [3:57] action. [4:07] Royal Purple is known for their [4:08] synthetic products. This is a synthetic [4:10] penetrant lubricant. It's supposed to [4:12] provide some good wear protection, [4:14] prevent rust and corrosion, and loosen [4:16] rusted and stuck parts. [4:26] So, what all can WD-40 do? It's supposed [4:28] to be able to lubricate. It's supposed [4:30] to protect from rust. It's also supposed [4:32] to be a penetrant as well as a water [4:34] displacement product. Okay, I still got [4:36] two bolts left. If I mess up on one, [4:38] I've got an opportunity to do another [4:41] set of tests if I need to. So, it's been [4:43] right at 1 hour. This is the acetone ATF [4:45] mix. What I want to point out is there [4:47] seems to be a lot of oily film still [4:49] left. That would be the automatic [4:51] transmission fluid. So, to me this seems [4:53] like it's going to continue to try to [4:54] work its way into the threads. Okay, [4:56] this is the Kroil. It looks to me like [4:58] most of what has been there is either [5:00] evaporated off or it's absorbed down [5:02] into the threads. This is Liquid Wrench. [5:04] Very much like the Kroil, it looks like [5:06] it's absorbed down into the threads or [5:08] it's evaporated off. Now, this product [5:10] claims it dissolves rust. I can't [5:12] visibly discern whether or not any more [5:14] rust has been removed from this compared [5:15] to the Kroil. It looks to me about the [5:17] same. PB Blaster doesn't seem to have as [5:19] much of an a film left behind as Liquid [5:22] Wrench or Kroil. It seems to be a lot [5:25] drier. So, this is Royal Purple Max [5:27] Film. Compared to PB Blaster, it looks [5:28] like there's more of the Royal Purple [5:31] left on the threads and the nut. This is [5:33] WD-40 and it's very clear there's still [5:35] a lot of WD-40 left. This stuff just [5:37] doesn't evaporate off as quickly as the [5:38] other ones. I'm going to go ahead and [5:40] apply the second dose of penetrants. I [5:41] went ahead and mixed up the ATF acetone [5:44] mix. [6:07] Okay, so it's been right at 3 hours. So, [6:08] what I'm going to do is go ahead and [6:10] bolt this down and we'll begin testing. [7:47] Okay, so we had 28 bolts that we used [7:50] for the test. We still have two left. [7:52] So, what I want to do now is use some [7:54] heat. I'm just curious if heat is a [7:56] better alternative than penetrating [7:58] fluids. In the past, whenever I've ever [7:59] had a stuck bolt, I always applied the [8:01] torch and it seems to work really well. [8:03] So, I'm just curious if it will help. [8:41] So, when it comes to dealing with rusty [8:43] bolts, one thing is for certain. [8:44] Something is better than nothing. If you [8:46] use any of these products, you're doing [8:48] better than if you use nothing at all. [8:50] Now, I was sort of skeptical because I [8:52] haven't really seen a whole lot of [8:53] results from using penetrating fluids in [8:55] the past, but you never really know [8:57] until you actually do a study like this [8:59] and actually see that it works. However, [9:02] when it comes to value, it's very clear [9:04] that some products are better than [9:06] others and in this case, the least [9:07] expensive product at $4 a can, Liquid [9:10] Wrench, beat all the competition. Went [9:12] ahead and organized these from first to [9:14] worst place. The first place is Liquid [9:17] Wrench. Automatic transmission fluid and [9:19] acetone is second. If you decide to do a [9:21] home brew of this stuff, please be [9:23] careful when you're using it. Acetone is [9:25] a pretty harsh chemical and it can do [9:27] damage to vehicle paint or to plastic or [9:29] rubber parts. And it'll soak through [9:32] certain types of rubber gloves. Even if [9:34] you're trying to protect yourself, you [9:35] have to be careful with it. Then there's [9:37] Royal Purple. It's $13 a can. It's a [9:40] pretty good product, but that's a lot of [9:42] money for a third place finish. Then [9:44] there's Water Displacement 40 or WD-40. [9:46] Not really known as a penetrant, but it [9:48] delivered a respectable fourth place. [9:51] Outcompeting both PB Blaster and of [9:53] course Kroil. I was I'm to see Kroil [9:55] come out on top or at least second place [9:57] because I did pay a lot of money for [9:59] this product and it has such a great [10:01] following and a lot of people really [10:03] advocate for this product as being a [10:05] top-notch performer. Now, the only thing [10:06] that seems to work better than a [10:08] penetrant is using some heat as we saw, [10:10] but heat's not always an option and you [10:12] may not have time to apply some heat. [10:14] So, is there a penetrant that's better [10:16] than the ones I tested? If so, I'd [10:18] really like to hear about that. Anyway, [10:20] I have a lot of fun doing these videos. [10:21] You guys give me some great video ideas. [10:23] Please keep those ideas coming. I read [10:25] and reply to just about every one of [10:27] your comments, so you're not wasting [10:28] your time when you provide a comment. [10:30] Thanks so much for watching the video. I [10:31] hope you like, share, and subscribe. [10:33] Please take care and look forward to [10:34] seeing you next time.