Hi All,
Last time I did any work on a car that involved more than just changing a tyre was back in the 80's, so the enforced time at home due to "you know what" means I'm trying to do a few jobs on my 2005 Defender.
First problem I've encountered is how to get hex screws/bolts out when they are rusted in - any suggestions?
I've got the correct hex bit size, but these just aren't moving.

Second question concerns the wheel hubs - the front drivers side hub centre is rusting quite badly - see photo below. Should I just clean off the rust and loosen the bolts? Or can I Hammerite it?

Any advice very gratefully received
Thanks

Geoff

Soak any rusted fixings in a 50/50 mix of atf fluid and acetone its the best penetration fluid you can get...

As above, give all areas a thorough soaking with atf/acetone...or PlusGas...for a couple of days, then remove. Re' hex heads, they may need to be heated up to finally 'crack' off. Re' front wheel/hub. Remove wheel then buzz hub back with a wire wheel, then treat with your preferred paint finish. However, do not use Hammerite, it will trap moisture underneath and the finish looks crap. Try BiltHamber or a good quality Satin Chassis Black for a proper lasting finish.

Given the state of the ladder you are trying to remove I would be cutting the bolts off and would possible suggets the ladder is beyond saving unless you are going to wedl a new peice of steel across the back there. Although they look like strainless so as long as there is a nut on the inside they should come off quite easily. If they are into a rivnut i go back to my first suggestion of cut them off.

The hub is fine, it is a big piece of steel. If you are worried about the aesthetics then as mentioned a wire wheel on the angle grinder will get it back to clean metal and then paint. I prefer red oxide primer and machine enamel myself over chassis black but any good quality paint will do the job.

Thanks all of you for this advice - seriously appreciated. I have ordered up acetone and atf, and I'll skip using Hammerite on the hub!