big nut for suspension won't open!, help! Options

[J-TYPE]

hey, i'm trying to take apart my suspension but the 19mm nut that holds the springs and shocks together won't open. it turns but then the cartridge spins with it. i tried using a vise grip to stop the cartridge from spinning but it still turns. anyone have this problem? and can give me some help removing the nut?

thanks inadvance!

[mr_dude]

If you're talking about the rear suspension, I had this problem too. The pressure plate (top black piece) has a moon-shape hole that the strut goes through. If the hole becomes round from wear, the entire assembly will turn if you try and undo the nut.

I tried a pipe wrench and vice to hold the strut and loosen the bolt, but it didn't work. I could think of more elegant approaches, but what I ended up doing was taking a hacksaw to the strut. It worked very well.

Edit:
And definitely replace the pressure plate. If you don't, you won't get the 19mm nut on tight and that causes loud problems.

This post has been edited by mr_dude: Jul 23, 2005 - 4:07 PM