How to remove the front spoiler/valance

[jriera]

I posted this a while back, now I have some time to dedicate to this (read unenployed), Tyson suggested to grab the nuts with vice-grips.. tried today for a while with no results... I cannot get anything in there.... Any other suggestions? What will be the best way to cut the bolts...

Hi all, just spend the last two hours trying to remove the front spoiler/valance on my car for some de-rusting/painting.. I located all the screws.. removed the black bumpers, removed the screw that holds the spoiler to the body thru the wheel arch, but the two nuts (per side) next to the batteries just keep turning and turning but they don't come out... I can see them turning from the horn grille, I can reach the back of the top one with my hand thru the horn grille and I can feel the nut turning.... but nothing.. does not want to get out...

What I'm missing??

Thanks in advance

[jriera]

Any ideas on how to remove the bolts??? Please....

[pbs911]

I did this last weekend, unfortunatly it sounds like the valance is installed differently than the early cars.

It sounds like the bolts (or sheet metal screws?) are just stripped and turning them will not remove them. Do you have enough room to drill them out, or get a good wire cutter / dremel and take the heads off?

[steveW]

My favourite saying - "if in doubt, get the grinder out!" - but be carefull

Cheers

[jriera]

Thanks Paul and Steve... I will try the dremel first.. 3 of the bolts (M8x22) just keep turning without moving out (or in) a bit... the 4th one has moved about 3mm...

Whish me luck.