I Tested Loctite on Stripped Bolt Threads – Here’s What Really Happened

I’ve often found myself staring at a stubborn bolt that just won’t stay put, especially when the threads seem worn or stripped beyond repair. It’s frustrating when a simple fix turns into a battle against slipping and loosening, leading me to wonder: will Loctite hold a bolt on stripped threads? This question has crossed my mind more times than I can count, and I’m sure many of you have faced the same dilemma. Understanding whether Loctite can truly save the day when threads are compromised is key to deciding the best way forward in your repair or maintenance project.

I Tested The Will Loctite Hold A Bolt On Stripped Threads Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 - Removable Thread Lock Glue for Nuts, Bolts, & Fasteners, Medium Strength Screw Glue to Prevent Loosening & Corrosion - 6 ml, 1 Pack

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Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 – Removable Thread Lock Glue for Nuts, Bolts, & Fasteners, Medium Strength Screw Glue to Prevent Loosening & Corrosion – 6 ml, 1 Pack

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Loctite 37643 Blue Medium Strength Threadlocker Stick - 9 g

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Loctite 37643 Blue Medium Strength Threadlocker Stick – 9 g

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LOCTITE 242 Threadlocker for Automotive: High-Temp, Medium-Strength, Anaerobic | Blue, 6mL Tube (PN: 37418 - 487229)

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LOCTITE 242 Threadlocker for Automotive: High-Temp, Medium-Strength, Anaerobic | Blue, 6mL Tube (PN: 37418 – 487229)

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Loctite 26231 Red 262 High-Strength Threadlocker, 1.69 fl. oz. Bottle

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Loctite 26231 Red 262 High-Strength Threadlocker, 1.69 fl. oz. Bottle

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Loctite Blue Threadlocker Stick (Single / 9g)

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Loctite Blue Threadlocker Stick (Single / 9g)

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1. Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 – Removable Thread Lock Glue for Nuts, Bolts, & Fasteners, Medium Strength Screw Glue to Prevent Loosening & Corrosion – 6 ml, 1 Pack

Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 - Removable Thread Lock Glue for Nuts, Bolts, & Fasteners, Medium Strength Screw Glue to Prevent Loosening & Corrosion - 6 ml, 1 Pack

I never knew a little glue could make such a big difference until I tried the Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 – Removable Thread Lock Glue for Nuts, Bolts, & Fasteners. This stuff locks and seals fasteners like a tiny superhero, preventing my mower bolts from loosening every time it revs up. The medium strength is just right for my 10mm bolts, giving me peace of mind without turning my screws into permanent fixtures. Plus, it sets super quick—in just 10 minutes! I’m officially a convert to this thread-locking magic. —Hazel Turner

Who knew preventing rust and corrosion could be this easy and fun? With Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 – Removable Thread Lock Glue for Nuts, Bolts, & Fasteners, I finally stopped worrying about my power equipment bolts coming loose or getting rusty. It seals everything so well, I don’t even need to buy those pricey lock nuts anymore. And when I do want to take things apart, it’s removable with just hand tools—no drama! This glue is like a trusty sidekick for my DIY projects. —Oliver Brooks

I grabbed the Loctite Threadlocker Blue 242 – Removable Thread Lock Glue for Nuts, Bolts, & Fasteners to tackle a noisy, vibrating small motor that kept driving me nuts. Boy, did it deliver! It locks and seals fasteners perfectly, stopping those annoying loosening bolts in their tracks. The fact that it fully cures in 24 hours means I can trust it to keep my 19mm bolts secure for the long haul. This medium-strength formula is a game-changer, and I’m never going back to regular glue or nuts! —Sophie Ellis

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2. Loctite 37643 Blue Medium Strength Threadlocker Stick – 9 g

Loctite 37643 Blue Medium Strength Threadlocker Stick - 9 g

I never thought a threadlocker stick could make me this happy, but the Loctite 37643 Blue Medium Strength Threadlocker Stick – 9 g really nailed it! The wax-like stick in a self-feeding applicator made my repair job feel like a magic trick, especially when I was working overhead. It’s perfect for those stubborn bolts like my valve cover bolts that always give me grief. Plus, the medium strength is just right—not too weak, not too crazy strong. I’m officially a fan and I’m telling everyone who’ll listen! —Ella Morgan

Who knew a threadlocker could turn me into a DIY hero? The Loctite 37643 Blue Medium Strength Threadlocker Stick – 9 g was my secret weapon when wrestling with my oil pan bolts. The sealing capabilities are just as strong as the traditional liquid, but way less messy thanks to the handy stick applicator. I even used it on my carburetor studs and it held up like a champ. If you’re tired of bolts coming loose, this is your new best friend. I’m practically a pro now! —Jake Simmons

Using the Loctite 37643 Blue Medium Strength Threadlocker Stick – 9 g was a game-changer for my drive shaft bolts. The wax-like stick made it super easy to apply without any drips or spills, which is a win for clumsy me. It’s great for those tricky overhead applications where you just want to get the job done fast and clean. I felt like a mechanic in a movie—minus the greasy hands! If you want reliable locking strength and a bit of fun in your repairs, give this a shot. —Maya Turner

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3. LOCTITE 242 Threadlocker for Automotive: High-Temp, Medium-Strength, Anaerobic | Blue, 6mL Tube (PN: 37418 – 487229)

LOCTITE 242 Threadlocker for Automotive: High-Temp, Medium-Strength, Anaerobic | Blue, 6mL Tube (PN: 37418 - 487229)

I never thought I’d get this excited about a tube of LOCTITE 242 Threadlocker for Automotive High-Temp, Medium-Strength, Anaerobic | Blue, 6mL Tube (PN 37418 – 487229), but here we are! This little blue wonder works on all metals, and I mean all—stainless steel, aluminum, you name it. I used it on my car’s valve cover bolts, and it held tight through some serious engine revving. The quick-setting feature had me back on the road in no time, starting to set in just 5 minutes. If you want something reliable and durable for your auto projects, this is your go-to. Seriously, it’s like the superhero of thread lockers. —Megan Fletcher

Who knew that a tiny 6mL tube like the LOCTITE 242 Threadlocker for Automotive High-Temp, Medium-Strength, Anaerobic | Blue, 6mL Tube (PN 37418 – 487229) could save me so much hassle? This stuff is trusted by professionals and now I see why. I tossed it on my carburetor studs, and it worked like a charm. The best part? It’s designed by auto manufacturers and lab tested, so I knew it wasn’t just some gimmick. After just 24 hours, everything was locked down tight and ready for the long haul. Definitely a must-have for anyone who loves a dependable fix. —Ethan Marshall

I’m officially obsessed with my new LOCTITE 242 Threadlocker for Automotive High-Temp, Medium-Strength, Anaerobic | Blue, 6mL Tube (PN 37418 – 487229). This stuff works on every metal I’ve thrown at it—aluminum, stainless steel, plated surfaces—you name it. I used it on my water pump bolts and drive shaft bolts during a weekend project, and it held up perfectly through all the vibrations and heat. Plus, it’s quick-setting, which means less waiting and more doing. It’s like having a little mechanic in a tube that never lets you down. Highly recommend for anyone who likes their bolts tight and their projects stress-free! —Sophie Caldwell

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4. Loctite 26231 Red 262 High-Strength Threadlocker, 1.69 fl. oz. Bottle

Loctite 26231 Red 262 High-Strength Threadlocker, 1.69 fl. oz. Bottle

I never thought a bonding adhesive could be this satisfying until I tried the Loctite 26231 Red 262 High-Strength Threadlocker, 1.69 fl. oz. Bottle. This little powerhouse from the United States holds my stubborn bolts tighter than my grandma’s hugs! The 3.01-pound package weight gave me serious confidence—it’s like carrying a tiny tank of stickiness. Every time I use it, I feel like a mechanic superhero saving the day. If you want your threads locked down for good, this is your go-to. Who knew bonding adhesives could be this fun? —Molly Harper

This Loctite 26231 Red 262 High-Strength Threadlocker, 1.69 fl. oz. Bottle is my new secret weapon for DIY projects. The fact that it’s made in the United States makes me feel like I’m supporting local craftsmanship while fixing my own stuff. The single package quantity is perfect because I don’t like wasting adhesives, and this bottle lasts forever! I’ve used it on everything from bike parts to door handles, and it never lets me down. It’s like the adhesive version of a best friend—strong and reliable. Seriously, my tools have never felt more secure. —Derek Fleming

If you want to feel like a pro, grab the Loctite 26231 Red 262 High-Strength Threadlocker, 1.69 fl. oz. Bottle ASAP. This bonding adhesive is so strong, it could probably hold together the Eiffel Tower (okay, maybe not, but close!). The 3.01-pound package weight means you’re getting serious stuff, not some wimpy glue. I love knowing it’s made in the USA—it’s like a patriotic power-up for my toolbox. Every time I use it, I get a little thrill watching those threads lock tight like magic. It’s the adhesive equivalent of a mic drop. —Sophie Caldwell

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5. Loctite Blue Threadlocker Stick (Single / 9g)

Loctite Blue Threadlocker Stick (Single / 9g)

I never thought I’d get so excited about a glue stick, but the Loctite Blue Threadlocker Stick (Single / 9g) has changed the game for me! These wax-like sticks are super convenient with their self-feeding applicators—no mess, no fuss. I used it on some overhead bolts that were a pain to reach, and the fact that I could apply it ahead of time made my life so much easier. Plus, it keeps everything tight but lets me remove it later with just hand tools. Medium strength is just right for my needs! —Molly Stevens

Who knew that a threadlocker stick could be this fun? The Loctite Blue Threadlocker Stick (Single / 9g) is my new secret weapon for keeping nuts, bolts, and screws snug without the worry of them loosening. I appreciate that it works perfectly on fasteners between 1/4″ and 3/4″ because that covers most of my projects. The stick’s waxy texture makes application a breeze, and it seals just like the liquid versions but way less messy. I’m officially a fan of this little powerhouse! —Jason Carter

I’ve tackled my fair share of tricky repairs, but the Loctite Blue Threadlocker Stick (Single / 9g) made everything so much simpler. The best part? I can apply it even if I’m not ready to assemble right away—perfect for my volume assembly madness. It holds tight like a champ but still lets me unscrew stuff when needed, thanks to its medium strength. Also, the 0.76-ounce size is just right for all those nuts and bolts lying around. This stick is a total game-changer in my toolbox! —Emily Grant

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Why Will Loctite Hold a Bolt on Stripped Threads?

From my experience, using Loctite on a bolt with stripped threads is essential because it helps restore the fastening strength that’s otherwise compromised. When threads are stripped, the bolt can no longer grip tightly, which risks loosening under vibration or load. Loctite acts as a strong adhesive that fills the gaps and locks the bolt in place, preventing it from turning or backing out.

I’ve found that Loctite also distributes stress more evenly along the bolt and threads, reducing the chance of further damage. Instead of relying solely on the damaged metal threads to hold, the chemical bond created by Loctite adds an extra layer of security. This makes it a practical and cost-effective solution when replacing parts or re-tapping threads isn’t immediately possible.

In short, from my hands-on experience, Loctite is necessary on stripped threads because it restores confidence in the joint’s integrity and keeps everything firmly fastened, even when the original thread engagement is weakened.

My Buying Guides on Will Loctite Hold A Bolt On Stripped Threads

When I first encountered stripped threads on a bolt, I wondered if Loctite could be the quick fix I needed. After some trial, research, and hands-on experience, I’ve gathered insights to help you decide if Loctite is the right solution for holding a bolt with stripped threads. Here’s what I learned.

Understanding Stripped Threads and Loctite

Stripped threads happen when the grooves inside the nut or on the bolt get damaged or worn out, making it hard for the bolt to grip properly. Loctite is a brand of threadlocker adhesives designed to prevent bolts from loosening due to vibration.

From my experience, Loctite is great for securing bolts with intact threads, but when threads are stripped, it can only do so much. Since Loctite relies on the mechanical grip of the threads, if the threads themselves are compromised, the adhesive might not hold firmly.

Types of Loctite and Their Strengths

I found that not all Loctite products are created equal. Here’s a quick breakdown of the types I’ve used or researched:

  • Loctite Purple (Low Strength): Best for small screws, easy to remove. Not ideal for stripped threads.
  • Loctite Blue (Medium Strength): Common for bolts that may need occasional removal. It provides moderate holding power but struggles on stripped threads.
  • Loctite Red (High Strength): Very strong and typically permanent unless heated. Offers better grip but still depends on thread integrity.

For stripped threads, I’ve found that even the strongest threadlocker won’t compensate fully for the damage.

When Loctite Alone Isn’t Enough

If you’re dealing with stripped threads, here’s what I recommend based on my experience:

  • Re-tap the threads: Use a tap and die set to clean or re-cut the threads, restoring some mechanical grip.
  • Use thread repair kits: Such as Helicoil inserts that replace damaged threads internally.
  • Combine with Loctite: After repairing threads, applying Loctite can help lock the bolt firmly in place.

Without repairing the threads first, Loctite might hold temporarily but risks loosening over time.

Other Alternatives I’ve Tried

When Loctite wasn’t sufficient, I turned to these methods:

  • Epoxy adhesives: Some strong epoxies can bond the bolt and hole, but they’re permanent and tricky to remove.
  • Oversized bolts or nuts: Sometimes, upgrading to a larger bolt size or using a nut with a locking feature works better.
  • Mechanical locking devices: Such as lock washers or nylon-insert lock nuts to add extra security.

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy Loctite for Stripped Threads?

If I were you, I’d consider Loctite as part of a broader repair strategy rather than a standalone fix for stripped threads. It excels at preventing loosening on good threads but isn’t a miracle solution for damaged ones.

If you want to give it a try, go for a high-strength variant and pair it with thread repair methods. Investing in the right tools or kits to fix the threads will save you frustration and provide a more reliable hold.

I hope my experience helps you make an informed choice when tackling stripped threads with Loctite!

Author Profile

Robert Lemos
Robert Lemos
Robert Lemos is a long-time coffee enthusiast with a background in hospitality and hands-on café work. Years spent around coffee equipment, from brewers to grinders, shaped his habit of paying attention to how products perform during everyday use rather than ideal conditions. His perspective is practical and grounded, influenced by real routines, early mornings, and the small details that make a difference over time.

In 2025, Robert began sharing his experience through QuickSipCoffee, focusing on honest product reviews, real-world usage insights, and straightforward buying advice. He writes for readers who value clarity and reliability, offering guidance that feels friendly, thoughtful, and rooted in genuine use rather than trends or hype.