Separating Bilstein insert from front Boge strut
 

I've pulled Bilstein inserts out of Bilstein struts before but the front Boge struts (car was a 74) seem to lack the pin one is accustomed to driving out. Pull the hat off and unscrew the big collar with two notches on it? I assume a hammer and an appropriate scrap of steel could be used in lieu of a special $200 spanner? Thanks,

If you don't care about leaving marks many have used a large pipe wrench or super size channel lock pliers.

+1 to the pipe wrench.

I don't think I even left noticable marks on mine when using a pipe wrench, and I'm picky about stuff like that.

If it's on there tight, pipe wrench will more often than not leave marks. Actually two pipe wrenches are perfect for this job. Even if it does leave marks, you'll still be impressed how well the pipe wrenches work for removal. Fuhgetabout using a spanner to remove, that's just asking for bloody knuckles and some expletives! :D Pipe wrench(es) make cake of this job.

Ok, I'll try the pipe wrench. Thanks to all.

I have the proper spanner wrench and have had to repair it multiple times since it is weak. So when the gland nuts are on their tight I reach for the trusty pipe wrench.

bilstein will send you the tool, if you have time to wait.

I will sleep much better now knowing that I am not alone in applying a pipe wrench to my Bilstein inserts.

I painted my pipe wrench "Bilstein green" so I can feel better about using it. But frankly I can't imagine doing it any other way.