strut removal
 

I just replaced my front Boge with Bilstein struts. I used a pipe wrench.
I tried a channel lock first but found that because the pipe wrench grabs more as you turn it, it worked much better. Still a tough job.

I have used this tech article before with good results--->

Paragon Products - Tech Session - Porsche Tech and Information

Bilstein 36mm Ring (or Gland) Nut Tool
 

Hope this is appropriate thread for this...

Determined the tool is essentially NLA from Bilstein or their distributors... our host doesn't list them that I could find...

Bilstein trool for Boge strut inserts, part nos:
- Old 420017
- New E4-MS08/6
- "MS08/6" - stamped on part. Also stamped on it is torque to use with this tool - 140Nm (≈103 lb-ft).
It's also described as "Bilstein 36mm Ring (or Gland) Nut Tool".

However I found them on eBay (US): Search for "VW Rabbit Scirocco Shock Insert Cartridg Gland Nut Tool" (Item Description also has "Cartridg" - missing the "e") - $13 + $5 S&H. I bought two, plenty more there. Part numbers not listed in description, found part/seller via Google image search. If you look at eBay worldwide, they seem to be in ready supply in Canada or Australia, given at a premium.

Of course only useful with strut top free, or removed completely and in a vice... if one can use this tool to torque the nut correctly when installing new inserts, certainly no teeth marks, and maybe less chance of needing Channel Locks/pipe wrench to tighten a loose nut in situ later... and reserve those puppies for removal of worn out units...

Cheers!

I just purchased the special gland nut tool directly from Bilstein; called them in North Carolina. They shipped it to me in a few days.

Well I'll be darned! Guess shouldn't have mentioned I was in California, or something! After calling Bilstein at several locations - including NC - was told either not available or to order it through distributor... called distributors, was told either not available or to call Bilstein... LOL.

Oh well!