How to Loosen a Coaxial Cable Nut

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The nut of a F-connector tightens and loosens a cable connection.

Coaxial cables transfer audio and video signals between pieces of audio and video equipment. The heat generated by the equipment can cause the F-connector holding the cable to the equipment to lock in place. This makes turning and removing the cable connector by hand next to impossible. Using the proper tool to remove the stuck connector or loosen it will ensure you do not damage the cable or the equipment connected to the cable.

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Step 1

Move the equipment hooked to the stuck cable connector to a position that allows you to reach the stuck connection.

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Step 2

Apply one to two drops of penetrating oil to the exposed threads entering the stuck F-connector. Allow the penetrating oil to sit on the connection for 30 to 45 minutes.

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Step 3

Place the open end of a 7/16-inch cable wrench onto the nut of the F-connector. Push the handle of the cable wrench gently counterclockwise to loosen the nut. Apply additional penetrating oil to the connection if the nut will not move under gentle pressure. Allow the oil to sit on the connection for one hour.

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Step 4

Move the stuck connector nut gently counterclockwise. Push the wrench gently clockwise 1/8 of a turn if the nut refuses to move counterclockwise.

Step 5

Alternate between turning the stuck connector clockwise and counterclockwise with the cable nut wrench while applying penetrating oil to the connection until the connector works free from the piece of equipment.

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