looking for tricks to free stuck nuts
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Joined: Nov 2005
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looking for tricks to free stuck nuts
Hey folks;
I'm replacing the steering rack on my 86. I have everything unbolted except for one of the hydraulic lines. I can't seem to get enough leverage on the wrench. Any tips on freeing it up? I'm using a line wrench, so I have good grip and I've not damaged the nut. Also, there's no rust, it's just on there, probably from 1986. any help would be great, since I'm sure I'll come across this type of thing again.
Bob
I'm replacing the steering rack on my 86. I have everything unbolted except for one of the hydraulic lines. I can't seem to get enough leverage on the wrench. Any tips on freeing it up? I'm using a line wrench, so I have good grip and I've not damaged the nut. Also, there's no rust, it's just on there, probably from 1986. any help would be great, since I'm sure I'll come across this type of thing again.
Bob
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Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 10,383
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Hey folks;
I'm replacing the steering rack on my 86. I have everything unbolted except for one of the hydraulic lines. I can't seem to get enough leverage on the wrench. Any tips on freeing it up? I'm using a line wrench, so I have good grip and I've not damaged the nut. Also, there's no rust, it's just on there, probably from 1986. any help would be great, since I'm sure I'll come across this type of thing again.
Bob
I'm replacing the steering rack on my 86. I have everything unbolted except for one of the hydraulic lines. I can't seem to get enough leverage on the wrench. Any tips on freeing it up? I'm using a line wrench, so I have good grip and I've not damaged the nut. Also, there's no rust, it's just on there, probably from 1986. any help would be great, since I'm sure I'll come across this type of thing again.
Bob
Try to tighten the nut a bit then back it off.
With a solid tool on the nut, like the wrench you are already using, tap the end of the tool in the direction to loosen the nut with a two pound hammer. I'm not saying that you should take one big swing and free it. Just the opposite. You should tap it with little one inch swings. I've never had a bolt that wouldn't break loose with lots and lots of tiny little taps.
Pro
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 638
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From: Plano TX
Unfortunately mine were seized up so bad that I ended up having to just cut the hose and buy a new one. Eventually a pipe wrench successfully pulled it off.
I like the recommendation of tapping with a mallet or a small hammer. Gentle taps have successfully helped me in the past.
I like the recommendation of tapping with a mallet or a small hammer. Gentle taps have successfully helped me in the past.
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From: Somewherein Pa
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Well, no dice on budging that flare nut. I got one off, the line that goes to the pump is loose. The line that goes to the resvoir is stuck. I'll try disconnecting the resovoir side and see if I can't finagle the rack out. If not, out come the cutters. I'd just cut it out now, but those lines ain't cheap. thanks for the help, and the laughs!!
Bob
Bob
