How to Determine the Direction for Loosening or Tightening a Screw?

[DelElliana]

Standard screws have left-handed threads, where left means loose and right means tight. Turn counterclockwise to loosen and clockwise to tighten. Over-tightening screws can cause damage to the car. There is no fixed rule like left-loose-right-tight or right-loose-left-tight. It depends on the rotation direction. Generally, loosening follows the rotation direction, while tightening goes against it.

[OscarFitz]

I usually follow the right-hand rule when tightening screws, imagining my right hand holding a screwdriver: turning clockwise tightens, and counterclockwise loosens. This rule applies to most household items, like chairs, tables, or appliance casings. But a motorcycle chain mechanic told me that some mechanical parts, like engine flywheel screws, are reverse-threaded, so you need to pay special attention to the labels. When working, it's best to wear cotton gloves for better grip and to protect your hands in case of slippage. If a screw is rusted and stuck, spray some rust remover first and use an extended wrench—forcing it can easily strip the screw.