Bolt froze won't come out
Mar 19, 2015 at 12:16 AM
1997 Subaru Impreza Rear suspension bushings
1997 SUBARU IMPREZA
BIGLEOLVELAZQUEZ
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CARADIODOC
- ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
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Welcome to our world. Most suspension bolts go through a metal sleeve inside a rubber bushing, and they get rusted to those sleeves. Even if you force the bolt to turn, it will just rip the sleeve from the rubber, then that sleeve will spin. Grr!
If you can get on the ends of that sleeve with a sawzall, you can cut through both ends of the bolt so you can pull the arm or link out. Then you can use a hydraulic press to push the bolt out of the sleeve. If you're trying to get this apart because the rubber bushing needs to be replaced, you can burn the rubber out with a torch. That can give you more access but that won't release the bolt from the sleeve. When it's still hot, that's a good time to bang on the bolt and try to hammer it out.
If you can get on the ends of that sleeve with a sawzall, you can cut through both ends of the bolt so you can pull the arm or link out. Then you can use a hydraulic press to push the bolt out of the sleeve. If you're trying to get this apart because the rubber bushing needs to be replaced, you can burn the rubber out with a torch. That can give you more access but that won't release the bolt from the sleeve. When it's still hot, that's a good time to bang on the bolt and try to hammer it out.
Mar 19, 2015 at 12:26 AM
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.