Bergerboy

Quick question on fastening the top of front shocks. Replacing the old ones (original from 1969??) with new Bilsteins.
The old ones had a stud with a flat on the tip to grip while loosening the nut.
The new Bilsteins have an internal 5mm hex on the stud tip.
Would there be any issue with spinning the stud with a hex drive bit, while holding the nut with a back-up wrench?
Seems that the stud is also the main shaft of the shock, and I don't want to do any internal damage with all the spinning needed to get the joint tight (there was about 1" or more of protruding stud above the tightened nut - so, many revolutions required). Seals could get compromised?
This method would be a lot easier than tightening the nut with an open-ended, while holding the stud stationary.
Thanks!

GUSTO14

Have you tried a ratcheting wrench?

Spinning the shaft should be fine, but the ratcheting wrench will work much better.

Good luck... GUSTO

7T1vette

For the purpose of installing or removing the shock, either method will work.

Bergerboy

Thanks!
Just want to make sure I'm not unscrewing something inside the shocks.
I'm thinking the torque reading should be the same as its tightened, compared to torqueing on the nut, right?

MelWff

Personally I would not spin the main shaft of the shock due to possible seal damage. They were designed for up and down movement, not sure what will happen if you turn them against the interior wall of the shock.

7T1vette

It's a round seal on a round shaft...

Shouldn't make any difference.