Shock absorber bolt rusted on

[n1md4]

Hi,

  I have a snapped spring that needs replacing, I need to remove 15mm bolt, but it rounded off on the socket, so I filled the sides down to fit a 14mm spanner, but it still slips.  I've also put a centre punch to the centre of the bolt, in an attempt to tap it around with a small toffee-hammer.

Nothing is making it budge!  Any other ideas?

[stef123]

Are you using a 6 or 12 point socket?

penetrating oil such as plus gas and some heat - never failed me yet.

i changed a spring on a mk2 focus a while back, the bolt was so tight I feared it was going to snap. A good bit of heat and it come out easily.

 

[moffs1]

I have just changed rear shocks on my mk6 fiesta earlier today, both sides bottom mounting bolts were seized and rusted on, so I used a grinder to cut off the nut then tapped the bolt through the hole with a punch. Took about 5 mins! Then put new bolts in with plenty of anti seize spray on them!

[n1md4]

Thanks for the replies, I'll have another go.

With the grinder and hole punch approach, and forgive me; I'm not sure on all the terms, is tapping cutting a new thread or is it literally tapping with a hamme?  If so, how does that work, as the bolt is threaded.  More details here would be really appreciated.

Lastly, what's the name of the part the bolt is clamping the strut to?

[stef123]

The part you are referring to is the steering knuckle.

Tapping a hole (ooo err) means to cut a thread.

Before you cut anything I would get some heat on the bolt, I would be very surprised if it can't be removed intact. A new bolt to replace it wouldn't be a bad idea either.,

[n1md4]

I managed to remove the nut with "damaged nut remover" by Silverline:

www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/B001C7T20E

Got it off in seconds.