Originally Posted by
soyabean
I unfreeze bolts with a Benzomatic MAPP torch.
It needs to get hot in the thousands of degrees, not hundreds.
Burned paint is better than a pretty scrap.
Then again, not jumping the gun from the very beginning all drill happy is better than burned paint.
Right. Honestly, the whole thing got in motion because I was in a hurry when I first noticed they didn't turn as easily as I wanted. Should have been a lot more cautious then instead of rounding out the first bolt. Stupid. But over and done.
I just did the rear wheel today. Had it properly prepared (maybe over prepared with penetrating oil), and all 6 bolts came out as I'd expect they would. Had my pen torch in reach, but didn't need it.
Thanks all for the comments. New wheels on the bike now, and it's ready to roll.