Stuck Control Arm Bolt

[dale1bre]

Has anyone ever had a control arm bolt so stuck they can not get it to budge? I think it might have rusted to the metal tube in the middle of the bushing. Anyone ever cut one of those bolts out? Looking for any and all suggestions. Thank you!

 

[96blak54]

An air hammer/chisel works wonders in this scenario. Ive never had a control arm bolt that stuck, but an air chisel would be my go to tool for something like that.

 

[weendoggy]

I'm waiting to hear if it's a front or rear control arm. An air chisel on an upper rear would be a challenge.

 

[RAU03MACH]

hit with the wd40 or any lubricant put nut at the very end flush of bolt get a hammer

 

[RAU03MACH]

its tight for a reason

 

[badass98svt]

Has anyone ever had a control arm bolt so stuck they can not get it to budge? I think it might have rusted to the metal tube in the middle of the bushing. Anyone ever cut one of those bolts out? Looking for any and all suggestions. Thank you!

Yes
Had to cut out a LCA bolt many years ago. The bolt was rusted to the bushing sleeve and would not budge.

 

[Drhoward]

Had the same issue with mine when I replaced the rear lower control arms, I ended up having to cut the bolts out with a sawsall. Not fun to do but it worked

 

[dale1bre]

Had the same issue with mine when I replaced the rear lower control arms, I ended up having to cut the bolts out with a sawsall. Not fun to do but it worked

I had to cut all 4 bolts out eventually! WHAT A PAIN IN THE A$$!!!!!!!!!!

 

[ttocs]

tried an impact and some penetrating oil?

 

[dale1bre]

tried an impact and some penetrating oil?

Lots of both! The bolts were rusted to the inner sleeves. Hammered and hammered! Terrible angles to get any real leverage. So a sawzall and four blades later, they are out!

 

[Todd in KS]

I would go with the sawzall suggestion then go back with Urethane bushings. Have had to do that on a couple different vehicles.

 

[badass98svt]

I used a cutoff wheel on a grinder.
With a Sawzall, you better be using a carbide blade. I'd buy a couple. Those are some hardened bolts for sure. They are definitely above "grade 8" .
If I remember right, the Ford replacements were $17/each. But that was easily 15 years ago.