I just dropped the tranny for a Mcleod clutch install And when I tried to disconnect the torque arm near the rear where the two long bolts are i couldn't break them loose. I tried using a breaker bar and air tools, but I didn't eat my wheaties this morning though Is there any trick to getting this tourque arm disconnected in the back? Thanks

 

Wow, I never had that much problem. Try spraying some WD-40 on there and let it soak in for about 30 min or so.

 

Yea, tried that. I'm stumped?? I don't need it to come off right at this moment but in the future when I replace the torque arm I'm going to need those bolts to come loose. Thanks

 

Wow, the only other thing I've done before is soak it for 24 hrs. Make sure there is no oil, grease, or other road grime on the threads of the bolts. It will make the WD-40 harder to "creep" up into the threads. I would clean the threads with alcohol or something. Then I would try spaying it with WD-40 a couple times in 24 hours, then try it again.

 

Try WD-40 first. Then you better go back and eat your wheaties because you'll need the brute power to break them loose.

I used to have problems breaking things loose, but after wrenching under the car for the last couple of years, every bolt WILL come out. In one piece or several, but it will.

I did the rear just the other weekend. All I used to break those two loose was the wrench and a piece of ~20" pipe as an extention. That pipe has been a lifesaver many many times.

 

Yep, think that I just need to let her sit for a while with some PB Blaster or some WD-40 like you guys said...and hit the gym while it soaks!! Thanks for the help

 

Heat, Mapp Torch $40.00 or so at walmarts. Best $40.00 you will spend on the car. 2000 deg hotter than propane.

Heat it till it is dull cherry red and let it cool. Spray a little PB blaster on it and it will come loose.

I changed the whole suspension on my car, heat was my best friend on the job.

Z28

 

Heat...good idea. I totally forgot about that. I have a propane torch that I'll try before making the trip to Wally World. Thanks.

 

It might sound stupid but make sure you dont have any tension on those bolts. If you are half way through getting that tranny dropped you probably added some pressure to those bolts.

Just a thought...

 

If you heat up the bolts, I would replace them since you are tempering them and they will become brittle.

 

To temper most common steels you would have to quench them in oil or water.

Also the alloy must have enough carbon or other alloy elements to even take a temper.

It is more likely that the bolts will be softened (anealed) rather than made brittle. I would expect them to be grade 5 or softer mild steel bolts.

I would get them out and look at them carefuly. If the shank of the bolt is pitted from rust and the threads are in bad shape, I would order new bolts and nuts. If the bolt looks ok, I would just buy or order some new nuts.

Don't bother trying to heat with propane, it is a waste of time and money. I have done it, buy the MAPP torch.

Z28

 

Don't bother trying to heat with propane, it is a waste of time and money. I have done it, buy the MAPP torch.

Z28

 

Thanks everyone for the great advice! Getting her all put back together now after the Mcleod S/T install. I can't wait. The break in period is going to be torture. Heading out to Wal-mart to check out that MAPP Torch. Thanks again.