Tuesday, September 20, 2011

I have a 98Neon and changing the rear struts. I am having a problem breaking loose 2 bolts on bottom at hub?

are they backwards threads or just real tight. I have broke 2 sockets trying to loosen them. any suggestions thanks for the help robert
I have a 98Neon and changing the rear struts. I am having a problem breaking loose 2 bolts on bottom at hub?
I don't have a 98Neon, but from experience with working on cars, they are likely just VERY tight.

I would go down to your local %26quot;Harbor Freight Tools%26quot; store and buy a 1/2%26quot; drive impact socket set and a very long 1/2%26quot; Breaker bar. I suggest this place because they are inexpensive, but it won't matter for these tools as they will be well suited for the job regardless of how much you spend.(I got mine there and they work great).

Make sure you get the appropriate sockets... Metric or standard,

deep well or shallow.

Then, you will have much more torque and the sockets will handle it.

Also, put some lubricant on them that is designed for penetrating such tough jobs and it should be a much easier job!

Good Luck!
I have a 98Neon and changing the rear struts. I am having a problem breaking loose 2 bolts on bottom at hub?
Are you sure they arent the lock nut
they are counterclock theads try an 6 point impact socket and a power bar,use a pipe over the bar for M.A.mecanical advantage.if needed.loosen the nut side first. If that fails you will need a torch.

keep the top of the strut bolted in in the strut tower so it doesn,t flop around on you while your removing the bolts.good luck