Front shockers - nuts stuck. Nuts!

[Homestar]

Just trying to replace the front shocker rubbers, as the old ones are chewed out. I went to undo the nuts - top and bottom, but, no matter what I try to hold the shaft with - spanner, bar with a slot cut in it, and finally a big pair of vise grips, the nuts are so tight, that the shaft pulls out of whatever I am holding it with. I don't have an oxy torch handy, so has anybody got any other ideas? The shock is ok, so I don't want to completly butcher them getting them out.

Cheers - Gav

[bee utey]

Just trying to replace the front shocker rubbers, as the old ones are chewed out. I went to undo the nuts - top and bottom, but, no matter what I try to hold the shaft with - spanner, bar with a slot cut in it, and finally a big pair of vise grips, the nuts are so tight, that the shaft pulls out of whatever I am holding it with. I don't have an oxy torch handy, so has anybody got any other ideas? The shock is ok, so I don't want to completly butcher them getting them out.

Cheers - Gav

Wrap a length of old webbing (seatbelt, or tie-down strap) around the lower body or use a strap-type filter wrench. I use a large set of vice grips around the base of the shock, gripping carefully through the spring. Then undo the bottom mount, and do the same to the top when you have taken the shock off with the hat still attatched.

[Homestar]

Thanks Bee Utey, the old filter strap worked a treat. I've been off the tools for too long, and only used to working on cars with my puny muscles .

I think I'll have a beer while I recover before I do the other side...

Cheers - Gav

[Wongdai]

I love a happy ending!

[Tank]

Nut crackers are good, Regards Frank.