24 replies to this topic

[edi57]

Right...my sisters Spi Equinox...

I've been trying to get the inlet manifold off so that I can get the exhaust manifold off so that I can replace the whole exhaust system.

I'm being held up by one very annoying manifold nut (brass).

[attachment=63286:06072008235.jpg]

It really doesn't want to budge and it's not made any easier by being the least accessable nut.

I've been using a ring spanner on it, and I have unfortunately slipped once so it is a bit rounded now...although definately not totally (still has sides near the base of the nut).

I tried to make a union with a couple of nuts (as can be seen in the photo) to get the entire stud out. That didn't work...the thread of the nuts just got stripped eventually.

I've tried using some Halfords Shock and Unlock on it, doesn't seem to have made a difference.

I'm needing some more ideas now!

Edited by edi57, 08 July 2008 - 09:26 PM.

[Rhyd]

Tried a blowtorch yet?

[edi57]

I've avoided using a blow torch because of the surrounding pipes and possible remaining fuel in the area.

I suppose I could make sure there is definately no fuel left, disconnect a few pipes and then give it a go.

Any other suggestions though?

[WiredbyWilson]

impact of 6 sided socket and maybe beat it on there.

can i ask why you are using a spanner? IIRC you can get a socket in there

[edi57]

Haha..., Seriously I can't get a socket in there. I would have loved to have been able to get a six sided socket in there but there is a solid (top of the photo) grey fuel pipe in the way, not to mention the rest of the injection system. Just not possible.

I have been thinking....is it possible to get six sided spanners? I'll have to take a look at Halfords tomorrow (unlikely I know, but convenient).

Further ideas are welcome! Please!

[edi57]

...just seen that Halfords do a 13mm Hex Spanner. Might have to give that a try.

[mini_kel]

See if they have 1/2 inch six sided spanner plenty of WD40 overnight also!

[mk1leg]

Use a1/2" 6 sided deep 1/4"drive socket amd unijount and 6" ext and away you go...............

[WiredbyWilson]

try a socket from underneath - on mine i got at them with a deep 1/2" socket and ratchet - may even have used a short extension!

to be honest I don't think you're gonn aget it undone with a 13mm spanner from the top mate.

and a 13mm spanner is slightly bigger than 1/2" hence why it will round off gotta think imperial with these minis

[edi57]

Wilson,

I'll try you're idea and drop the spanner idea. I won't have time to give it a go tonight, but should have enough time to see if it's possible to gain access from underneath.

If this doesn't work, then I've got to start thinking about how to get such a nut off if it were totally rounded. The only thing I can think of is to grind it off, then take out the remander of the stud when the manifold is off. Biggest problem with that idea is trying to get anything in there to grind it off would be very difficult. A dremel type tool would take forever, and with an air file, it'd probably take a long time too and use up a lot of (expensive!) little sanding belts.

....and then I'm left with the problem of a little bit of a stud left in the head.

[GraemeC]

Remove your two extra nuts then slice through the other nut down the side of the stud thread with a hacksaw blade. Will be slow, annoying and a right pain but you should then be able to knock the remainder off and probably even save the stud.

[pantera2075]

Several ways you can go at this.

You can get hex ring spanners - i've got an assortment from v. cheap to Facom.

Always use 1/2" AF if struggling, 13mm will just round it off - especially if it's brass.

If the nut is brass WD40 wont do much, but it wont hurt. The good thing being that brass is real easy to cut and grind - a dremel would be through it in seconds.

Or, get a cheap 6 side 1/2" socket and drill a hole thru it, then use a screwdriver in the hole to crack the nut, then just use a spanner.

Or, get a nut splitter.

[WiredbyWilson]

hacksaw blade down one side would be my next move mate , or even down the middle of the nut and stud - and then knock the two halves off.

[minicooper1.3i]

I reckon you should invest in a decent 'cranked' 1/2" ring spanner. That's what I use. Mine's about 10" long and is perfect for getting around the solid pipe above!

[pantera2075]

Mine's about 10" long and is perfect for getting around the solid pipe above!

Oooer!!!??? However you get your kicks matey!!