Front Shock removal issue

[Halfsmoke89]

Hey all,
Went to install FJ shock/spring setup this past weekend using a few write-ups as guidelines. I got to the shock top nut removal and couldn't get it off. Nut was seized to shock, sprayed anti-seize and let sit, but still couldn't get off. Any tricks I should know about?

 

[Buckles]

Mix 1 part ATF to 1 part Acetone, and soak the nut. If that doesnt work, get a torch.

 

[Halfsmoke89]

Thanks. I'll try that this weekend.

 

[RCs4Runner]

What did you use and how long did you let it sit?

If you used something like PB Blaster you should spray it for a few days and let it soak in really well. It takes time to get down into the threads.

 

[HokieRunner]

Hey all,
Went to install FJ shock/spring setup this past weekend using a few write-ups as guidelines. I got to the shock top nut removal and couldn't get it off. Nut was seized to shock, sprayed anti-seize and let sit, but still couldn't get off. Any tricks I should know about?

If you're just tossing the old shock then sawzall the nut off and call it a day.

 

[Halfsmoke89]

If you're just tossing the old shock then sawzall the nut off and call it a day.

Sounds like thats whats going to happen if heating it up doesn't work...

 

[Halfsmoke89]

What did you use and how long did you let it sit?

If you used something like PB Blaster you should spray it for a few days and let it soak in really well. It takes time to get down into the threads.

It was PB. I soaked it a week prior and then the day before and minutes before...i think I'm past trying that...

 

[Morphyne]

I had to cut mine off. No amount of pb will help. If you can afford it and can wait just buy new top hats and be done with it. Thats what I wish I had done.

http://www.rockauto.com/catalog/moreinfo.php?pk=3983946&cc=1434454

 

[eddiebx]

It was PB. I soaked it a week prior and then the day before and minutes before...i think I'm past trying that...

I've never had luck with any of those types of penetrating oils on really really stuck bolts...go with a torch like other's have suggested. Heat it up real good and go at it while it's still hot. Or if you have an oxy/acetylene torch, just melt the nut off, lol.

Another option to try out is a nut splitter, you might be even able to rent them at your local auto stores for free!

 

[Morphyne]

I've never had luck with any of those types of penetrating oils on really really stuck bolts...go with a torch like other's have suggested. Heat it up real good and go at it while it's still hot. Or if you have an oxy/acetylene torch, just melt the nut off, lol.

Another option to try out is a nut splitter, you might be even able to rent them at your local auto stores for free!

that is awesome. Never tried it before.

 

[wnelax04sr5]

[MENTION=98493]Halfsmoke89[/MENTION] id say you need to go to cutting or drilling, as others have suggested. i had to drill a shock nut out and it wasn't fun, but it got it off no problem, if you have new struts i wouldn't worry too much about messing up the old ones

 

[Halfsmoke89]

Thanks for all the help and input guys. I think I'll skip the heat to save myself the time at this point. I'm tired of getting stuck at what shouldn't be a difficult spot. I'm located in Clearwater,FL right now so shouldn't have an issue fighting weather to get it done.