holding the top of the shock strut

[randywebb]

What is the best way to hold the top of the front shock so I can torque the nut? I don't have the ability to make the funky tool for this; the Bilstein tool incuded with the inserts only works for the collar nut that holds the insert in; and vice grips will damage the threads opposite the small cut off "indent" at the top...

Impact did a fine job of getting the nut _off_ but obvioulsy won't work to torque it down.

Or am I forced to impact the nut on, and not torque it?

[jbrinkley]

you can't hold the top washer with channel locks?

[DW SD]

Good question. I've used the impact in the past, just didn't hammer it on too hard. Will be in the same boat within a few days, with any luck.

Doug

[randywebb]

The washer? I recall (car is at paint shop) that it does have a key on it, right? Is there room to grab it and still get a socket on the nut - i.e. you've done it before?

I've used impact in the past to knock the nut down, but would like to do it "right" - esp. since it would be unpleasant if it [a] came loose, or [b] snapped while I was driving.

Or maybe I can get a strap wrench on the strut body? I sure don't want to put a bend in it...

[anthony]

I don't think holding the strut body would help. You have to hold the piston to keep it from turning. I just zapped mine with the impact gun. With the weight of the car sitting on the shocks the pistons didn't spin.

[450knotOffice]

I just did this two days ago. Grab the big washer with channel locks. hold it tight with one hand and use the other to torque the big nut down. It works. Trust me. I'm only 165 pounds and I had the strength to keep the washer from turning with only one hand. Piece of cake.

[randywebb]

Thanks - will do. I bet Doug and many others will be pleased to find this tidbit, too....