Liam Carter
Railroad ties are the primary support beams for rails and are typically made of wood or concrete. They are laid perpendicular to the rails and hold them upright. Due to wear and tear, railroad ties must be replaced periodically. Removing railroad ties involves dealing with retaining walls and borders that are held in place by long metal stakes or rebar. While cutting the railroad tie makes it easier for one person to move, it is also possible to dig out the sides of the railroad ties and then lift the entire tie with the help of others. Various tools can be used to remove nails from railroad ties, including a crowbar, vise grips, a yankee nail puller, a slide hammer, and a large pin punch.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Railroad tie removal tools | Mattock, shovel, pry bar, sledgehammer, channel lock pliers, car jack, vise grips, reciprocating saw, angle grinder, yankee nail puller, slide hammer nail puller, crowbar |
| Railroad tie removal techniques | Pry the end of the tie up with a pry bar; cut through the top railroad tie with a reciprocating saw; wedge a pry bar under the railroad tie; pound nails back in; cut nails off flush; cut the head off with an angle grinder and drive them out with a large pin punch; dig out the sides of the railroad ties and lift the entire tie off the rebar with help |
| Railroad tie types | Wood, concrete |
| Railroad tie replacement frequency | Every 7-10 years for wooden ties; up to 30 years for concrete ties |
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What You'll Learn
Using a pry bar
Removing nails from railroad ties can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be accomplished. Here is a detailed guide on using a pry bar to remove nails from railroad ties:
Before starting the process, it is important to wear the necessary safety gear, such as safety goggles and gloves, to protect yourself from any flying debris or sharp edges. It is also recommended to have a helper or two to assist with the process, especially when dealing with heavy railroad ties or larger projects.
Begin by locating the nails or spikes that hold the railroad ties together. If the nails are protruding, you can use a pair of locking pliers, vise grips, or similar tools to grip the nail head securely. Then, use the pry bar to provide leverage and pull against the pliers, effectively removing the nail. This technique is useful when dealing with nails that are difficult to access directly with the pry bar.
If the nails are not protruding, you can try digging around the railroad tie with a shovel to expose more of the nail. Once the nail head is accessible, use the pry bar by placing its flat end under the nail head and applying pressure to lift it out. It may be necessary to repeat this process on both ends of the railroad tie to loosen it completely.
For more complex setups, such as retaining walls, you will need to locate the entry points for the steel rebar that holds the ties in place. Mark the tie approximately 6 inches away from each side of the rebar entry points. Then, use a reciprocating saw to cut through the tie along the marked lines. Cutting the tie into smaller sections will make it easier to manage. You can then use the pry bar to lift the sections off the rebar. If the rebar is stuck, you can try wetting the ground and using a sledgehammer to loosen it before pulling it out with pliers.
In some cases, you may need to get creative with your pry bar technique. One method is to place concrete blocks near the railroad ties and use the pry bar as a lever, with one person standing on each end. This additional weight can help lift the ties and provide access to the nails or rebar underneath.
When dealing with particularly stubborn nails, you can try cutting off the nail heads with an angle grinder or similar tool. This will allow you to drive the nails out from the other side using a large pin punch or similar tool. Alternatively, you can use a slide hammer or "Yankee nail puller" designed specifically for nail removal.
Remember to always assess the condition of the railroad ties and nails before beginning work. Older nails may be rusty, weak, or prone to breaking, so it is important to adapt your techniques accordingly. Additionally, be mindful of your surroundings and take appropriate safety measures, especially when working with potentially toxic materials like creosote-treated railroad ties.
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Using a yankee nail puller
A Yankee nail puller is a type of slide hammer tool that can be used to remove nails from railroad ties. It is a handy tool for this task, but it may not work on ring shank nails.
To use a Yankee nail puller, follow these steps:
First, ensure you are wearing appropriate safety gear, including eye protection and gloves. Railroad ties often contain creosote, a toxic substance, so it is important to take precautions to avoid exposure.
Next, identify the nails you need to remove. If the nails are ring shank nails, the Yankee nail puller may not be effective, and you may need to try a different method, such as cutting the nails with an angle grinder or using a different type of nail puller.
If the nails are accessible and not ring shank, place the yankee nail puller onto the nail head. The tool typically has a sliding weight that you can pull back and forth. Position the weight at the back of the tool and then slide it forward with force to deliver a strong, sudden blow to the nail head. This force should help dislodge the nail from the railroad tie.
If the nail does not come out on the first try, you may need to strike it multiple times with the yankee nail puller. Adjust the position of the tool as needed to get a good strike on the nail head.
Once the nail is dislodged, be sure to collect it safely, as the nail may be sharp or have splinters that could cause injury.
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$7.95
Using locking pliers
Locking pliers, also known as vise grips, can be used to remove nails from railroad ties. This method is particularly useful when dealing with rusty nails or rebar that are difficult to grip. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use locking pliers for this task:
Step 1: Assess the Condition of the Nails
Before attempting to remove any nails, it is important to inspect the condition of the nails and railroad ties. Rusty or aged nails may be more challenging to remove and could require additional tools or techniques.
Step 2: Prepare the Work Area
Ensure that you have a clear and safe workspace. Railroad ties are often heavy and cumbersome, so it is important to have enough space to maneuver and access the nails comfortably. Put on appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, to safeguard against any potential hazards.
Step 3: Position the Locking Pliers
Grip the nail head securely with the locking pliers. Ensure that the pliers are clamped tightly onto the nail, providing a firm grasp. This step is crucial, as a secure grip will help prevent slippage and enable you to exert the necessary force for removal.
Step 4: Apply Force and Remove the Nail
Once the locking pliers are securely in place, use a controlled amount of force to pull the nail out. Depending on the nail's condition and the resistance encountered, you may need to apply a significant amount of force. If the nail is particularly stubborn, you can try rocking the pliers back and forth slightly to help loosen the nail before pulling it out completely.
Step 5: Handle Removed Nails and Reassess
After successfully removing a nail, set it aside in a designated area to prevent injuries from sharp ends. Take the time to inspect the condition of the surrounding wood and any remaining nails. If the wood is rotted or damaged, it may affect your technique or the stability of the structure. Repeat the process for each nail, ensuring a secure grip and steady force application with the locking pliers.
Additional Considerations:
When using locking pliers to remove nails from railroad ties, it is advised to work with a partner or assistant, especially when dealing with bulky or heavy ties. This will help ensure a safer and more efficient process. Additionally, if the nails or rebar are extremely rusty or difficult to remove, you may need to consider alternative methods or tools, such as a pry bar, mattock, or specialized equipment like a spike puller.
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Using a saw to cut the nails
If you're looking to remove nails from railroad ties, one method you can use is cutting the nails with a saw. This can be done in several ways, using different types of saws and blades. Here is a detailed guide on how to do it:
First, let's talk about the type of saw. A reciprocating saw is a good option for cutting nails, as most blades are designed to cut through metal. You can also use a jigsaw, but the blades may dull quickly. If you're using a hand saw, make sure it's a woodworking hand saw. While it may seem counterintuitive to use a woodworking saw on metal, with the right technique, it can be effective.
Now, let's discuss the blades. When using a power saw, it's recommended to use a metal-cutting blade. These blades usually have a tooth count of more than 10 teeth per inch. Carbide blades are also an excellent option, as they can cut through nails quickly and efficiently. If you're using a woodworking hand saw, you can create tiny teeth on the blade by smacking it a few times from one end to the other. Don't worry, you won't damage the saw, and this will allow you to cut through the nails.
When using a power saw, position the blade against the bottom of the nail, ensuring it sits flat against the timber. Begin cutting through the nail by moving the blade side to side in a hack saw motion. This motion will help extend the life of your blade. If you're using a jigsaw, you may need to purchase cheaper blades and replace them as they dull.
For particularly challenging nails, you can use an angle grinder with a diamond grinding wheel. This is a powerful metal-cutting tool that can cut through heavy bolts. However, use caution when working with angle grinders, as they can be dangerous.
Remember, when using any power tools or saws, always wear the appropriate safety gear, including eye protection and gloves. Cutting nails can be dangerous, so take your time and work carefully to avoid injury.
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Using a sledgehammer and pliers
Removing nails from railroad ties can be a challenging task, but with the right tools and techniques, it can be accomplished. In this case, a sledgehammer and pliers can be used effectively to remove the nails. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to achieve this:
First, identify the type of nails present in the railroad ties. Railroad ties often use large, sturdy nails or spikes that require significant force to remove. If the nails are rusty or damaged, this can further complicate the removal process. Understanding the nail type will help determine the best approach for their extraction.
Prepare your tools and work area. Ensure you have a suitable sledgehammer and a sturdy pair of pliers, such as locking pliers or channel lock pliers. These tools will provide the necessary force and grip for nail removal. It is also important to wear appropriate safety gear, including gloves and eye protection, to prevent injuries during the process.
Locate the nails or spikes on the railroad ties and assess their condition. If the nails are protruding, you may need to cut them down to size using an angle grinder or a similar tool. This step ensures that the nails are flush with the surface, making it easier to work with them and reducing the risk of injury.
Using the sledgehammer, strike the head of the nail firmly but with control. The impact force should be directed straight down onto the nail head to avoid bending or damaging the nail. By striking with controlled force, you can loosen the nail's grip in the wood without causing it to bend or break.
Once a nail is loosened, use the pliers to grip the nail head securely. Channel lock pliers or locking pliers provide a strong and stable grip, allowing you to exert force without slipping. Apply force in the opposite direction of the nail's insertion to slowly extract it from the railroad tie. If the nail is particularly stubborn, you may need to strike it with the sledgehammer again to further loosen it before attempting to pull it out with the pliers.
In some cases, nails may be severely rusted or damaged, making them difficult to grip with pliers. If this is the case, you can try applying penetrating oil or lubricant to the nail and surrounding area. Allow the oil to soak for a while to help loosen the bond between the nail and the wood fibres. Then, use the sledgehammer to strike the nail gently, being careful not to damage the surrounding wood. This process may help break the rust's hold, making it easier to grip and extract the nail with the pliers.
Removing nails from railroad ties using a sledgehammer and pliers requires patience and caution. Work systematically through each nail, taking the time to loosen and extract them one by one. By following these steps and adapting them to the specific challenges of your project, you can successfully remove the nails and accomplish your landscaping or construction goals.
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Frequently asked questions
A pry bar, mattock, sledgehammer, pliers, yankee nail puller, claw hammer, and a spike puller are some tools that can be used to remove nails from railroad ties.
The first step is to pry the end of the railroad ties up with a pry bar or the head of a mattock. If the nail stays stuck in the tie, you can use a hammer to loosen it up and pull it out with pliers.
Railroad ties are large wooden beams used to support railroad tracks. They are typically made of wood, concrete, steel, or composite materials.
