How to Loosen a Stuck Telescopic Rod?
4 Answers
If that doesn't work, go to a hardware store and ask if there's any oil for screws that won't come out. They will provide the relevant oil. Its characteristic is that the metal strip or plastic sheet is pre-formed into an elastic curled layer with memory function that is smaller than the outer diameter of the rod.
Over the years, I've dealt with quite a few cases of stuck telescopic rods, usually caused by rust or dirt buildup. I always keep a can of multipurpose lubricant like WD-40 or similar products on hand. I spray it evenly on the stuck point and let it soak for a few minutes to penetrate. Then I gently twist the rod by hand, trying both clockwise and counterclockwise directions to see if it loosens. If hand twisting doesn't work, I use rubber-gripped pliers to assist rotation, applying gentle and steady force to avoid sudden jerks that might cause breakage. Disassembling the telescopic components to inspect the interior is the final step - first removing the fixing screws to clean the joints before reassembly, which not only fixes the sticking issue but also prevents recurrence. These procedures are most commonly used on car antennas. I once encountered a case where rain caused the rod to rust, but with patient operation, it became smooth as new again.
I usually use tools to handle such trivial matters. Once the telescopic rod gets stuck, I'll grab a can of lubricant, spray it on the stuck point, wait for five minutes, and then use an adjustable wrench or pipe wrench to grip the rod steadily, slowly turning it at an angle. Tool selection is crucial: rubber gaskets increase friction; safety goggles protect the eyes from flying debris; ensure there's ample space during operation to avoid self-injury. If the rod is fragile, don't force it; instead, switch to fine sandpaper to polish off the rust and then lubricate it again. This method is suitable for DIY car repairs, such as wiper joints. Every successful unlock brings a sense of accomplishment, but well-maintained tools last longer.
I believe there are several common reasons behind a stuck telescopic rod: rust due to moisture or salt; dust accumulation in the crevices; or mechanical wear causing increased clearance. When encountering this situation, I first analyze the symptoms: for rust, I spray a dedicated rust remover and let it sit; for dust blockage, I clean the surface and then twist it; if the wear is severe, a new rod might need replacement. A simple method is to wrap the rod with a cloth to increase friction and gently rotate it; if that doesn't work, disassemble and lubricate the interior. This analysis helps me quickly address stuck car parts, such as antenna rods which commonly rust after rain, and regular rust prevention reduces trouble.
