2000 SS:
Having trouble removing the strut/shock from the upper
bracket.
The nut on the top of the shock was completely rusted
together... I got that off, with a cut-off wheel....
Now, I assume that the bracket should slide off ??? Not
Happening.
Has anyone had any experience with this ?

 

You have the spring compressed, I hope? That nut is all that holds the top bracket on, so I'm surprised it's not off already...

Dave

 

Yes,,, the whole things apart... I cut shock in half and
cut the spring off . Whats left is the top of the shock and
the bracket... I'm sure I will need a new bracket.
The old shaft is just fused into the bracket.

 

Have you tried heat and an impact hammer?!?

When we took the original suspension out of my 99 the nut had fused to the shock ...ended up breaking the shaft on the shock ...but everything else came apart okay.

Anyone have a suggestion as to what the best lube/anti-sieze would be in this area to prevent it from happening again? Seems to be a natural pocket for collecting moisture and grit

 

When I replaced mine, I just put a gob of grease on it. I hope it will help in the future. I havent had any problem with it loosening....I dont think.

 

A few good hits with a hammer in that area should loosen it up, if the nut is completely gone, like you say. I assume this is the passenger side? They like to get water in there for some reason.

Remember, the nut has a little flange on the bottom. I thought I had cut all the way through mine, but then I noticed the little flange on the nut and cut through that too. Then I hammered off the nut, and it came apart real easy. Like I said, a hammer should do the trick, as long as the nut really is completely off.

Dan

 

Yep, huge glob of grease is the standard answer...

Dave