damper fork

[68442]

On my 97 awd auto the lower bolt on the damper fork is seized. So I am unable to remove the strut. Looking at it I have a few choices. One is to cut the head of the bolt and the end off and drill it out and get a new bolt, might be tough to drill straight. 2nd is bust a ball joint loose and remove fork and replace with used or new fork and ball joint. Number one is way cheaper of course. Any suggestions?

 

[Locke]

Have you tried removing it with an impact wrench, yet?

 

[99gst_racer]

In the past, an impact and penetrating lubricant has worked almost every time. Twice now, though, I've had to actually take a cut-off wheel and cut the fork out, and then replace it and the bolt.

 

[Flash]

I agree. Swing by NAPA and get some BG In-Force Penetrating Oil. Then try it by hand. If that still doesn't work then get an impact. Since it sounds like a virgin bolt, clean up the head a little with some brake cleaner and a rag so you can really get a good grasp on it.
But if you have to cut it, go from behind. Because I know that the fork compresses around the strut to hold it, and there should be a gap to get a cutting tool in there to cut the bolt holding it together. I wouldn't recommend doing this at all. But if you are absolutely on your last option.

 

[VanIsleDSM]

After breaking 1 of the bolts for the rear control arm, and knowing the other was going to break.. I had decided no more.. I went and bought a compressor immediately and removed the remaining bolt like a snap.

A $200 air compressor that came with an impact gun was the best mod I ever did.. everything seems to take half as long as it used to... I swear quite a bit less, and my knuckles don't get near as bashed up.

That bolt that broke is the last bolt I've had to easy-out since I got the compressor about a year ago.

 

[68442]

I've used my 650ftlb impact and used pb blaster on it, I'll give it a few more days to soak and try again.

 

[Locke]

Let the impact try to drive it in a few taps, then try running it out. Do this repeatedly, in and out. You just have to get it to break free. My 450ftlbs Sioux breezes through everything. I have never even considered getting a larger (and slower) impact.

Just keep messing with it. PB (or whatever) and impact. Eventually it will come out without breaking anything.