6']['9

iTrader: (2)

every time we change the struts on mr and my brothers cars. we come across the top of the strut being too rusted and having to cut the nut off. well i just installed my bilsteins about 9 months ago and now im going with a GC kit well i dont want to have to replace the strut just cause its rusted. Are there any ways around this other than having to grind the nut off thanks

Jay

trackbird

iTrader: (4)

Not really. The best thing is to pack the top of the shock in anti sieze or grease before assembly. After the fact, you might try a wire brush and a drill. Clean up the threads as much as you can and use lots of oil and work the nut off slowly.

That is the best advice I can give you. Just work slow.

Good luck!

6']['9

iTrader: (2)

is there any way to patch up that piece so that theres no water that can get in there

Cal

iTrader: (1)

Try using a nut splitter, that way you don't damage the threads. I've never had to cut one off yet and I replaced struts on a '93 with 150,000 miles on the original stuts. To keep therm from rusting, coat with copious amouts of silicone sealer.

GM Muscle

iTrader: (9)

Use an impact wrench. Hit it a couple of times real quick to break it loose, it should work like a charm.

6']['9

iTrader: (2)

whats a nut splitter

A BAD T/A

The Bilsteins have an allen (socket head) top of the rod so it is much easier than the OE to hold the rod while you turn the nut.
FWIW, I have been driving in winter conditions with salt on the roads for 3 years now and when I changed out the front shocks back in March, I did not have a lot of trouble with the nut. Guess I was lucky!
If you need a "nut splitter", NAPA has them and they won't damage the threads if you use them correctly.

Cal

iTrader: (1)

Hmm hard to describe . . . it goes all they way around the nut, then a chiesel edged bolt comes in from the side and splits the nut. With the side of the nut open, you can eaisily turn it off. A lot of places sell them; Sears and even Harbor Freight. They also come in several sizes.

VIP1

Here is what it looks like:
http://www.sears.com/sr/javasr/produ...id=00904772000

zombie1

Judge Judy!

screamin' 85 z

Put a lot of penetrant on it, Then with an impact wrench, keep working it forward, and backwards...Eventually it will work itself all of the way off...Be patient, this will take some time. The nut splitter idea is MUCH easier, but this method may allow you to save the nut.

Jeffs99SS

I've always used an impact gun as well, and that usually does the trick. If not, it is possible to use a cutoff wheel to take off one edge of the nut without touching the threads. It just requires good aim

Jeff

BADz2ATE

Try using a torch, now a cutting torch, but just a propane torch, set very low, and just heat up the nut evenly till it is glowing, then you should be able to just turn it with your wrench or impact whatever you have. this is how we do it at my shop. then just get a new nut if you have to, but you shouldnt.

Mike