Sway Bar Strut Removal Help Needed

[idfotou]

Trying to replace my worn out sway bar strut but I can't get the darn thing off where it attached to the strut. As you know, the inside bolt rests inside that v-shaped piece of metal attached to the strut. With the tight location, I can seem to get any leverage to loosen the bolt. I've tried extensions, sockets, open wrenches, etc. Nothing works. The bolt is a bit corroded and it has been sprayed with every chemical substance known to humans. Any suggestions besides removing the entire strut with the thing attached?

strut.JPG

[cartoonz]

ratcheting box wrench?

[JDP530]

If I remember correctly the shoulder on the outside of the mount has two flats for a thin 17 mm wrench to fit onto.

[idfotou]

JDP530, yes, you are correct. You need that wrench as well as the 16mm for the inside bolt. Can't get inside enough (no room) to break them free.

[TxGR8White]

I took a wrench and ground down the sides to make it thinner. Slides right in between the ball end and the sway bar ear.

[rjjablo]

Nothing wrong with a little bit of heat from a MAPP torch. While still hot grab it with a wet shop towel.

Or cut the nut off with a Dremel with a Cut off Wheel. Wear Safety Glasses

Or cut the strut off with a 5 Inch Cutting Wheel, Wear Safety Glass and Earplugs

[bdiefAZ]

Thin wrench needed for inboard side, sometimes you get lucky with just using an impact wrench for removal