How To Remove Loc-Tite Residue to Remount Scope?

TX_Diver

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DFDD3911-7D48-4FE4-BB4D-7C2D94BABE49.jpegPulled a scope and rings off a rifle and want to re-mount. So far acetone and brake clean have failed to remove the blue loc tite residue from the first mounting though. I sprayed everything in brake clean, then soaked the screws for a few minutes, And tried to wipe them off by twisting them into a brake clean soaked rag. Then I tried to wipe them with acetone. Both gave me the same results with a white residue remaining on the screws. I have them soaking in acetone now. Any other suggestions? How do I clean the insidAnd tried to wipe them off. Then I tried to wipe them with acetone. Both gave me the same results with a white residue remaining on the screws. I have them soaking in acetone now. Any other suggestions? How do I clean the threaded holes too in the bases?

Rings are sportsmatch.

Pic is after brake clean and acetone..
 
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TxxAgg

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Seems like I've had good luck with Ballistol getting loctite cleaned up. I'd want to apply some acetone after that, though.
 
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I usually turn a razor blade in the root of the threads to chip out the pieces, and then a brass brush and acetone. If you have an adjustable die you can also open it up so it's not cutting metal, and thread the screw into that.
 
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TX_Diver

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I usually turn a razor blade in the root of the threads to chip out the pieces, and then a brass brush and acetone. If you have an adjustable die you can also open it up so it's not cutting metal, and thread the screw into that.
Tried a razor blade and a little hook that I had too. Neither worked really well.

@Formidilosus you re-mount a lot of scopes it seems like? Any secret tips?
 

Wrench

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Your threads only contact at the pitch diameter.....the "faces" of the thread. The root space is just clearance.
 
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TX_Diver

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If I could find a way to hold the screw better probably? Will give that a try tomorrow on the drill.

I have some extra 8-40 screws but these are different unfortunately. Maybe 8-32?
 
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TX_Diver

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EEB8B43A-F3E2-4D26-80DB-E7188104563A.jpg
He answered my same question here:

Hmmm. That did not work for me. Unless the white residue isn’t an issue? I’m sure there isn’t any oil on them, but the metal is certainly coated in a few spots still…

This is after my cleaning attempts with brake clean and acetone…
 

5MilesBack

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I would have just left it as it was when you took them out, and re-installed the scope on the other rifle. And then if they didn't hold, I would have added some new Loktite to them.
 
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I have had no issues just cleaning as best I can with acetone and using a nylon brush and red shop type rags to get as much of the loose residue out, then reinstalling with a fresh dab of blue locktite.
 

260madman

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Blue loctite, for me, has always come off of threads when using a pick. Larger cap screws and bolts that I’m able to reuse I use a bench grinder with a wire wheel because it’s fast.
 

Stu

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I just take off the scope ring caps, or any piece that keeps you from running the screw the full length of the threaded mating surfaces, and run the screws in and out a few times until they turn easily. Then wipe off the now loosened debris, and degrease. I just want them turning without significant resistance so my torque values don't get thrown off when reinstalling.
 
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