Torqueing gland nut on boge struts

[robert crouse]

Hi, I'm installing new Koni inserts in the Boge struts as shown in the photo. One difficulty I've encountered is how to apply the 90 ft-lbs to the gland nut. I have the correct gland nut wrench, but because the strut is free to move, it's awkward to torque the nut, especially to the spec'ed level.

How do you all do this? I've never tried it, but is it ok to put the wheel on and lower the car so that the tire is on the floor, and then torque it? The only other component that is disconnected is the tie-rod.

Thanks

[snbush67]

I’ve only ever done it with the tie rod connected. If you put the tire back on and lower it then there isn’t going to be very much room.

I think you could hold the strut arm in place to counter the force you’re putting on the gland nut. Maybe y you could use a pipe for leverage.

[robert crouse]

Hi, thanks for your help.

I did try with the tie-rod connected, but it just moved the steering rack when I pulled on the torque wrench (in other words both front wheels are off and both tie-rods are disconnected).

My plan would be to put the wheel on and lower it only enough to get the tire on the floor with some pressure while still allowing access to the gland nut, and then use the tire for leverage when I apply the torque.

I'm going to try it tomorrow and I'll post the result here.

[robert crouse]

Actually, your point gave me another idea just now.

I could put a lug nut on the hub and then put my breaker bar with a socket on the lug nut to hold the wheel hub while I torque the gland nut. I think this would be equivalent to my first idea but would guarantee access to the gland nut.

[snbush67]

Good plan!

[robert crouse]

My plan wasn't much better than just holding the strut by hand. As you suggested, I connected both tie-rods and then held the strut by hand while torquing the gland nut. It worked pretty well. Thanks again for the help!