Leaf spring front bolt

[MiniMan]

Hi everyone,

Its been a number of years since I've posted, hope everyone is doing okay all things considered.

I'm after some advice. I'm currently replacing the leaf springs on my mk3 capri... howvere I've run into some trouble. The front bolt appears to have fused to the bush and is refusing to move. Ive managed to get the nut off and tried the usual, heat, penetrating fluid etc.. but it still refuses to move.

Someone suggested getting a 9inch angle grinder and cutting through the bolt either side... has anyone tried this? I'm not the most confident with an angle grinder so if there's an easier option I'm all ears

Thanks as always and great to be back
Sam

[Mr B]

Hi mate,

Sadly I think the angle grinder is the only real option, must admit I'm personally not that confident with angle grinders either, saying that though this forum is full to the brim with knowledge/experience so someone may have an alternative mate

Wayne

[stevemarl]

Sadly I think the angle grinder is the only real option,

I think you`re right. Only other way would be to use a thin hacksaw blade, by hand? B&Q used to sell a sort of handle so you could use a hacksaw blade as a single ended cutting `thing` - is that a pad saw??? (But it would be akin to digging out a nuclear bunker under your house using a couple of spoons...)

[LaserSean91]

Sam, As has been suggested an angle grinder is your best bet. 1mm discs are ideal if you can get your hands one some. I changed mine a few weeks back and one was stuck solid and the other came out easy. A smear of anti seize compound will work wonders for any future removals. Hopefully once installed you won't need to take them off again anyway. Good luck.

[Peter-S]

I don't wish to insult you but I imagine you have tried a big hammer already.

I had exactly the same on my first Capri over 30 years ago. In those days Draper made a large rigid fibre sanding disc and the coarse version would cut metal and was thin enough to get between the chassis rail and the leaf spring. Sadly they don't seem to be available anymore

[MiniMan]

Thanks everyone for your advice, I really appreciate it.

I did try a hacksaw but like you said I seemed to be getting nowhere and gave up after about 30minutes! I also tried hitting it (more in frustration) with the biggest hammer I have but it still nothing!

I've just purchased a 9" angle grinder on screwfix for 50quid... not a bad price so we'll see how I get on... wish me luck

Thanks for taking the time to reply, cant believe I've been on this forum for 11years and this is my first post in about 7years!... where has the time gone!