How do I separate these two metal poles?

June 13, 2016 11:42 AM

I have a hammock frame that I'm taking apart with the hopes of bringing it with me on a trip. The last two pieces don't want to separate and I'm out of ideas. I have tried: - standing on it and pulling - standing on it and twisting (can't get leverage) - applying an ice pack to the place where the rods are connected (it doesn't seem to help)

Here is what it looks like: http://i.imgur.com/IMD9Xkn.png

posted by LSK to Grab Bag (7 answers total)

It's hard to tell from that distance and the blurry image, but that looks like it may be welded.

What makes you think it comes apart there? Did it before? Or have they never been separated?
posted by Brockles at 11:48 AM on June 13, 2016

What should separate from what? It's unclear in your picture how that horizontal piece is attached — it is inserted through a ring of some kind on the upright piece?

And, do you have a brand name?
posted by beagle at 11:50 AM on June 13, 2016

Best answer: Blaster --> My spouse uses this stuff to unstick all the things. You should be able to get it any any big box or automotive store.

Word of warning: do not drop the bars from a great height to jar it loose. Don't ask me how I know that.
posted by slipthought at 12:07 PM on June 13, 2016

I have a stand like that. The spring button at the joints had gotten rusty. I sprayed some WD-40, and tapped it with a hammer and the button worked and the rod came out. If it's not welded or twisted, it might just be rusted.
posted by CollectiveMind at 12:53 PM on June 13, 2016

WD-40 isn't really a penetrant; Kroil or PB Blaster are much more effective. You can also mix automatic transmission fluid (ATF) and acetone up to about 50/50 if you don't want to buy a commercial penetrating oil.
posted by a halcyon day at 2:30 PM on June 13, 2016 [1 favorite]

A pipe wrench might help you get leverage, after you've used the lubricant.
posted by still_wears_a_hat at 2:50 PM on June 13, 2016

Response by poster: Blaster worked! After a single spray it easily twisted off.
posted by LSK at 1:55 PM on June 14, 2016 [2 favorites]