Rear Strut help !!!!!

[acsho]

I am trying to replace the rear struts on my 94 atx and have run into two problems. First the pinch bolt broke holding the spindle to the strut, so the spindle is loose but won't come off. Any ideas on how to get the broken bolt out?

Second how do I remove the nut at the top of the strut? There is no way to hold the strut and remove the nut because the nut is recessed into a metal piece and the only way to get to the nut is with a socket.

 

[ISHOU]

Just had this happen a few months ago. You'll have to drill out the old bolt-easy-out drill bits just won't do it in my opinion because I tried those with no success. Get a cobalt drill bit and go at it slow and straight and get a new bolt and nut. If you haven't done the other side yet heat it up with a torch after applying PB Blaster- that should help -it did with me. Good Luck!!!!!

 

[artsho]

You have to drill the pinchbolt out...Start with a small drill bit and work your way up.....Takes time but it works....For reassembly use a nut and bolt... As for the bolt on the top of the strut, Air gun works every time...Or you can go to your autoparts store and buy a strut socket set.

 

[rudedog]

Second how do I remove the nut at the top of the strut? There is no way to hold the strut and remove the nut because the nut is recessed into a metal piece and the only way to get to the nut is with a socket.

You have to get the strut out of the car first, and there are 3 nuts at the top to do that, then you will need a spring compressor to take tension off the top mount then use an impact, it'll come right off.

 

[Mr95Gl]

I am trying to replace the rear struts on my 94 atx and have run into two problems. First the pinch bolt broke holding the spindle to the strut, so the spindle is loose but won't come off. Any ideas on how to get the broken bolt out?

Second how do I remove the nut at the top of the strut? There is no way to hold the strut and remove the nut because the nut is recessed into a metal piece and the only way to get to the nut is with a socket.

If you know a good welder, you can have them weld something to it (I used a spare lug nut). As for the second question, the strut needs to be removed from the car first to access that nut, and it is strongly advised that you use spring compressors to compress the spring while you remove the strut.