benztolex

I'm having issues removing the lower strut bolt that connects the lower control arm to the strut. We tried torching and hammering. It would budge. Last resort is to cut the bolt. However I'll need a replacement bolt. Does anyone know where I can buy this bolt. I've tried o'reily, autozone and advance. I've read a thread where it's 19 mm. I've even tried lowes. I have one nf210 to install. Help guys. Thanks in advance.

Dawa

iTrader: (5)

have you tried using the longest closed ended wrench or longest ratchet and either putting a pipe over that and or striking that with a mallet?

benztolex

Yes sir we tried the pipe over the wrench. We even tried hammering the back end when using the air drill on it. No success. I'm thinking its corroding inside. The car came from IL. Maybe the weather elements was the case. Thanks though!

ibidu1

iTrader: (1)

Look in the phone book for a bolt and fastner stores. They should be able to help you. But have you tried calling the dealer?

benztolex

Not yet, I'll give them a buzz tomorrow. No service shops were open today. Thanks bro!

Dawa

iTrader: (5)

have you applied a lubricant/penetrate such as wd40, pb plaster or similar?
hit it with that and let it sit for a while so it can creep up in there.
when you slipped the pipe on are you giving the pipe a jolt or a steady pull?
the jolt is more effective because it gives a sudden burst or torque, rather than
steadily pulling on it. if you already knew that, disregard

and also i agree that a fastener store is your best bet. awesome prices and selection

benztolex

PB(check) WD40(we didn't try) I'm hoping when we try it again later this week it would have losen. With the pipe, we just used a steady pull. We had the car on jack stands so we didn't do much jerking.

By the way. Thanks for your service. Former Navy Crypto (Vet) here. Some of my buddys performed OPS on Subs out of Groton back in 2000.

Dawa

iTrader: (5)

if you used pb then you dont need to bother with wd.
yeah you gotta give it a yank and not a steady pull.
that method is known as the 'poor man's impact wrench.'
i can understand not wanting to do that when its on stands but
it should be good.

whenever i work on a car on stands i give it an earthquake check:
i shake the **** out of the car as hard as i can. even it doesnt fall then it probably wont
fall on me when im yanking on it under the car. even on stands ill also have back ups in case
some how they fail. like wheels laid flat under the frame and also an extended floor jack
positioned in a way that it could catch the car if it falls but so thats its also out of the way so i can work.

but hey man, trust your instincts, if you dont feel safe dont do it.