Strut Insert Removal

["A. D. Morris" <allanm@primenet.com>]

While (Thanks Jeff :)  replacing the rear struts in my '88 90Q 
this weekend, I have run across a little problem.  The inserts are 
stuck in the tube.  Yes, the struts are off the car, the cap nut is 
removed, but I can not get the insert out.  The other insert pulled 
out, with a little effort.  I figure I have pulled  about 250 lbs on the 
strut trying to remove - without a budge.  I have tried penetrating 
oil and lightly hitting the strut while pulling.

Because the strut shows signs of  leaking, I suspect it may be 
hydraulically locked.  Anyone seen this before?

How do I solve this?  Drill a small hole in the tube near the bottom? 
(Yes, I know the strut is pressurized, but it has very little 
pressure in it - it does not extend back).


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A. D. Morris
Phoenix, AZ
allanm@primenet.com
1988 90Q
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