CV boot assistance

[gdunn]

I dug into the CV boot replacement procedure this past weekend (passenger side) but hit a problem. The middle bolt (of 3) on the heat shield stripped. I thought perhaps I could still get the axle out, but with the shield in place, but I couldn't move the inner end of the axle far enough forward.

I could get a bolt-out onto the outside of the head of the bolt, but I didn't have enough room to get a socket or a wrench onto the bolt-out to turn it.

Ideas would be appreciated.

 

[rydogg]

Not an enviable position. I've had some luck in the past with my Dremmel by cutting a slot for a big flat-head screw driver.

 

[s4phillips]

I would first try something like the Irwin Bolt-Grip Fastener Remover. I have also read reports of people hammering a socket (10mm I think) on to the outside surface of the fastener and being able to remove it that way. Some times the impact from hammering something on to the fastener helps break the tension so it can then be easily removed. ...can't remember how much room you have to work on that fastener, think it is really tight.

 

[gdunn]

The Irwin tool looks promising. It has different drive options than my bolt out tool. My bolt out only allows for wrench/socket drives (which are both too big for the given area). The Irwin appears to drive from a 3/8" ratchet (which doesn't add any additional space--assuming the bolt grip tool isn't any larger in diameter than the bolt out).

Thanks for the pointer.