Mr Paul [T-28]

I am replacing all 4 wheel bearings on my car. I've gotten to the dreaded pinch bolt and no matter how much PB blaster and banging I subject this bolt to, it is not moving. I know a popular method is to heat it up with a torch, but I am pretty sure that will ruin my control arms - which I am not planning on replacing. Last time I went through this I drilled it out but I don't want to have to go through that again.

I seem to recall somebody twisting the head off of the bolt and then put the nut back on and start tigtening it down really tight and use the force of the nut to break the bolt shank free. Does this work?

What is my best option for getting the bolt out without ruining my control arms? I don't have access to air tools either.

Thanks.

ModifiedA4

personally, in the future, before doing any suspension work im going to spray that bolt with PB blaster daily for about a week and definately use an impact setup.

Kris Hansen

Air hammer. it's the only way without heat or drilling.

Carson@RiversideAudi

I have a special thin bit for my air hammer that I used when I was a tech to remove stubborn pinch bolts.

budpalumbo

I use airtools, but since you aren't...
You can plan on getting a new bolt if you haven't already. The head breaking use the nut method may help, but you need to breakt the rust holding it first or you'll just break that end too. Smack the knuckle with a hammer, use lots of rust buster, and if you have a very large chisel(big enough to spread the joints, not just cut into the bolt), try to spread the joints out a little. You won't see them move, but it will help to break the seal. once you get the rust broken, the bolt should hammer out. I've never had to use heat, but like I said, Got air? Klann makes a press to remove the bolt, but a new knuckle and upper control arms are cheaper.

DaveInSaltLake

the first step is to get that bolt spinning in place to break the rusty bond between the parts. after it's spinning the PB blaster will do it's job and it should come right out with a little encouragement from a center punch and hammer.

Mr Paul [T-28]

Yep, I already have new nut and bolt ready to go. Thanks, I'll give it a try this weekend.

Mr Paul [T-28]

I'll look into an electric impact wrench. Thanks.

RallyVermont

try the heat first.

TheMike

...just incase you ever do have to remove it again....