special tools for SSI install?

sbmackie · 10-03-2013, 04:23 PM

Hello,
I'm fixin' to do the ssi swap on an 82 SC. I've heard about a special tool I need (I got the SSI's used) to reach some of the studs. Do I need any special tool to get the oil lines off?

So, what unique tools will I need? Got the PB blaster, a torch, a nut cutter dremel, and basic socket set/crescent/box end wrenches, etc.

Thanks
Scott

rs6er · rs6er's Garage

The SSIs come with a long bent wrench which reaches up to the nuts. I wasn't able to get them off with it, so you will probably be fine without it.

ddinham · ddinham's Garage

Scott,
You can borrow mine if you need it.

Dana

theiceman · 10-03-2013, 06:58 PM

you will probably need that long hex bit to go through the hole in the exchangers to get to the barrel nuts. dont remember the size tho

Wyvern · Wyvern's Garage

not trying to scare you but be sure you know of / can find a good mobile "stud / bolt removal " contact ... just in case

rattlsnak · rattlsnak's Garage

Plan on breaking at least 6 studs, that way when you only break 2, you'll be happy..

JJ 911SC · JJ 911SC's Garage

Quote:

Originally Posted by rattlsnak

Plan on breaking at least 6 studs, that way when you only break 2, you'll be happy..

BTDT... The tool is only good during the installation at best.

blucille · 10-04-2013, 03:27 AM

Flame wrench.

fred cook · fred cook's Garage

When I changed the exhausts on my '80 SC, I used a sawzall to cut off the old heat exchangers. That way, I was able to have direct access to the very rusted nuts holding the flanges to the heads. Even with good access, I still managed to break two exhaust studs during the removal process. I made a drilling tool to use when removing the broken studs, but have since discovered that it would have been much easier to simply heat the inside of the exhaust port with a torch to melt the thread locker and then twist out the remains of the studs. As long as the broken stud is above the head surface and can be grasped with a twisting tool, the torch method will work.

When reinstalling the new SSI heat exchangers, use a floor jack to hold the exhaust in place until you get a couple of nuts started. To make it easier, I glued the washers to the nuts with a dab of contact cement. This is where the special tool comes in handy. You will need it to tighten the hex nuts. Or, you can go buy a distributor tool which looks very much like the SSI tool, bend it just a bit and do the same job. If you get a distributor wrench for SAE nuts (1/2") you will probably need to file out the hex in the wrench so that it fits the nuts.

The first time I did this job, it took me 2-3 days, but now I could probably do the job in 2-3 hours! Good luck with your project!

Fred Cook

blucille · 10-04-2013, 07:37 AM

I've cut down box-end wrenches, but I've also had very good luck with good universal joint sockets, I have some snap-on ones that work, both 12 and 13mm.

my best success has been to soak the rusty nuts, some say ATF mixed 50-50 with acetone is the best penetrant....I used Kroil....soak them for days or weeks before you are ready. I've heated the nuts with a mapp gas torch, until they are as red as they will get, and I didn't break any.....the previous time, where I was less patient and less persistent about pre-soaking, I broke 4 studs, but that motor wasn't as nice as my more recent project.....some say to use a dremel to cut off the nuts. anything is better than breaking studs.

Dodge Man · Dodge Man's Garage

You may want to look at the old school Crow's Feet Metric sockets/wrenches to see if they are long enough in reach to access the nuts. Used to use them on MB valve adjustments & valve jobs. Horizontal access distance is a difficult thing sometimes. Best of luck.

sbmackie · 10-04-2013, 10:16 AM

Alrighty,thanks for all the inputs. I am starting the "soak and sit" effort now. Then, some 'love taps", then more soaking, then maybe some heat...THEN I'll try taking them off.

Don't have a close by wrench for the twisted off stud...yikes.

Scott

gtc · gtc's Garage

The best tool I've found so far for SSI installation is a 12mm(?) flex-head gear wrench.

Pelican Parts.com - 12mm Flex Head Combination Wrench

sbmackie · 10-04-2013, 10:17 AM

Couple this with the fact that I can recognize a screw driver 8 out of 10 times...should be fun. Any Atlanta area guys want to have an SSI swap party, beer and a showing of "Le Mans' on my 36 inch tube TV to follow???

Cheers
Scott

911pcars · 10-04-2013, 10:46 AM

After successfully removing old heat exchangers, installing new versions is a piece of cake.

See archives on removal strategies. Removing rusted/corroded nuts w/o heat or breakage s usually a challenge. With heat, easier. In all cases, apply a rust penetrant (Kroil or equivalent).

Sherwood