Removing strut nut.... Can't get it off

[KlassicMotion]

I'm working on my 280zx conversion for the 510.  I'm trying to remove the nut holding the strut cartridge in place.  Here is a picture of what I've tried using to no avail.  I haven't had any luck finding a 50mm socket in town.  What are my next options?  Do I try to order a 50mm socket, or is there some other trick?

 

[KlassicMotion]

I think I will bolt on the wheel and try a cheater bar next.....

[OkieRA29]

I usually loosen that nut while the strut is still on the car.  If not, mount the tire and lay it face down with the strut on top.  Grab your pipe wrench and tighten it down on that sucker.  Whack it with a good heavy hammer a couple of times and that should loosen it.  Also, try some PB blaster or such stuff in the threads.

[thisismatt]

Shouldn't have a problem with the channel locks.  Put the strut tube/spindle in a vice and it should come off fairly easy.

[KlassicMotion]

I'm telling you, I've tried both multiple times with everything you've suggested.... I will keep at it.

 

The ones on my older 510 struts came loose easy peasy....

[KlassicMotion]

Alright, I got it.  It took a 4' cheater bar to get it to budge. 

 

Thanks for the support.

[Tristin]

So you couldnt get your nut off, huh?

 

 

 

Heres a picture of a cheater bar to help you:

 

[KlassicMotion]

I had hoped someone would read into the title!  Thanks for the beer!

 

BUT,

 

Now I've got the problem that the old strut cartridge won't come out.  Is there a trick to that?

[Draker]

Remove the black o-ring in the top. Get a pick and remove it.

[OkieRA29]

tie one end to a tree, tie the other end to you bumper and drive off!

[KlassicMotion]

Remove the black o-ring in the top. Get a pick and remove it.

 

I wondered, Thanks.  I also see there is controversey over whether or not there needs to be fluid around the gas shock.... Any suggestions?

[thisismatt]

Not necessary, but some will claim it helps keep it cool by transferring heat to the outside.

[darrel]

Is the cartridge centered in the housing? The strut could be bent. Then you will have to drill from the bottom and use a punch to hammer it out. Don't drill through the cartridge, easy to do. But then you still might not be able to put the new strut back in.

[KlassicMotion]

It's all good.  Everything is apart.  Thanks for the help guys.

 

I noticed the new Tokico cartridge comes with a new retainer nut (the one I was struggling with).  It does not have a rubber seal built in or one that goes around it.  That confirms to me that Tokico does not feel it is necessary to surround the cartridge with fluid.

 

Thanks again for the help,

Kyle