Hey guys, I'm in the process of self-installing my Tein H-tech 350z springs on my 2005 g35c. I've got both of the rear wheels done, and I've started on the front left. I'm now inside the engine bay trying to loosen and remove the three strut tower bolts. I've managed to remove two, but the third one is a complete pain. It's a 12mm bolt, I first tried with a socket wrench for about 20 minutes, then attempted to get a breaker bar, and a longer extension. Nothing has worked and now it looks like I've striped the bolt. It literally will not turn, I pull as hard as possible and push down and it comes up off the bolt instead of turning. I'm stuck, any ideas?

Here are some pictures

 

damn you did a number on that one....

I would try heating it up with a propane torch and possibly spraying a little PB Blaster or WD-40 on the threads (from both sides if possible) to help loosen it before trying again.

you may have to use some vice grips if that bolt keeps stripping like that...

Also, replace that bolt before re-installing.

 

theres a new tool out(dont know name) sears sells it, its similar to a ratchet wrench but grips ANYTHING including stripped nuts(giggity) and rounded bolts,not sure how much it costs but i remember seeing one on black fri

 

Yea I worked it pretty good haha, thanks for the ideas guys.

I don't know if I could get my hands on a propane torch, but I'm definitely going to try some WD-40/PB blaster, the vice grips, and maybe that new tool that's out. I'm going to give it another go tomorrow so we'll see what happens. Thanks again.

 

try using an impact socket instead (those are usually black-heavy duty ones) and get the 6 side one rather than the 12.

That should prevent the slipping.


Don't forget to replace the nut once you get it off.

 

They are usually pretty cheap at your local hardware store.

 

It's not that new...

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_1...00&origin=beta

or

 

6 point sockets FTW if all else fails vice gips are a mans best friend

 

use impact sockets if not do what i did..took it to a near auto shop and they loosened it for me for free.

 

Righty tighty, lefty loosey! Are you going in the right direction?

 

Good news, I got the bolt off and I've completed my spring installation. Took a ton of work, but well worth it! I used PB Blaster & Bolt grips to get the bolt off. Thanks a lot!