fighting subframe captive nut: need advise

[Konstantin Bogach]

Thank you  for the good advise.  From digging in archives I had impression that loose captive nut is a common problem.

Why do I need air tools?  Is that because it is less probable to break nut loose with air tools? Or becasuse  it is hard to unbolt it in genaral?  I am going to take subframe to a shop to press bushings out and in.

Konstantin Bogach.

>
> From: cobram at juno.com
>
> The nut breaking loose or stripping is not that common, it only happen to
> me once out of many changes.  I'd be very hesitant to do this (or any
> other) subframe bushings unless I have air tools and a lift handy.
> Bushings can get SERIOUSLY stuck, the worse is probably BMW, but Audi's
> can get ornery too.  If the nut in the frame does break loose or strip,
> you can sneak another nut in through the small opening in the front of
> the frame,  I used a box end wrench with a dab of black silicone to hold
> the nut on the wrench.  All new hardware goes without saying.
> I don't know of many techs who would be very happy with the little
> scenario you outlined,  either do it yourself or don't, if I was a shop
> owner or tech it would really get me PO'ed if you asked this.  Try to
> loosen the bolts first yourself, and if the nut breaks loose, you'll
> still be able to drive the car.  If the worse happens take it to the shop
> and play dumb would be the most diplomatic method.
>
> BCNU,
> Cobram at Juno.Com
> http://www.geocities.com/cobramsri/index.html
>