🔧 Why do HGV mechanics tap nuts and bolts with a small hammer?

If you’re new to the trade, you’ve probably seen experienced mechanics lightly tapping nuts, bolts, or components with a small hammer and thought… what are they doing that for?

It’s not just habit — there’s a proper reason behind it.

In heavy vehicle work, especially on HGVs, things like corrosion, thread tension, and seated components can all affect how parts behave when you’re stripping or refitting them. A light tap can help:

Break corrosion bonds without damaging threads
“Shock” seized fasteners loose before applying force
Most importantly tells you the sound difference between a loose bolt and a tight bolt.

It’s one of those small workshop techniques that doesn’t get taught properly in textbooks, but you’ll see time and time again in real-world repairs.

I’ve put a short video together showing exactly what I mean in practice 👇🎥. https://youtube.com/shorts/e43ql5VzOGY?si=7TljLEQ2EWiUDvSB

If you’re an apprentice or even a seasoned mechanic, this is one of those simple techniques that will give you confidence that the vehicle is safe.

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