Power Steering Rack, Long Through Bolt Stuck Solid

[Bigger_Is_Better]

Has anyone else had this problem? The long through bolt that goes through the cross member is stuck in the crossmember. It's about 2.5" out the front side, and won't budge anymore. I can't find any threads where someone had this problem. My best guess is it somehow got bent, even though it doesn't look bent.

I'm thinking about driving it back in, then cutting it off even with the crossmember. Then trying to pound it out......this is REALLY frustrating!! I got the top bolt easy.

 

[Quadsbc]

You already have the nut off? A picture would help us help you.

 

[Bigger_Is_Better]

Yep, nut is off. I'll get a pic.

 

[Bigger_Is_Better]

 

[Quadsbc]

Diff drop installed? If so you will need to remove the dif drop and jack up the diff to clear it. As far as just stuck, put a wrench on the back side of the bolt head hit the wrench with a hammer as do drive it out.

 

[jreask]

I had the same problem yesterday when I replaced the rack bushings on my 2002. I don't have the front diff in the way though. I drove it through with a large headed nail set. Some carpenters call it a punch. It turned out to be a little rusty and the rust evidently had it seized up a little. I hit it once with the nail set and it came loose. I wire wheeled it and it went it easily.
I had some vibration at about 60 MPH and thought the new Grapplers needed balancing. The vibration is gone today. I don't know if the bushings cured it or not.

 

[Bigger_Is_Better]

Diff not in the way, turns out it's slightly bent. I pounded it back in, sanded the crud off the exposed stud, and then drove it out. Sucker was stuck good. Now to order a new one.