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Rear Axle Bracket Bolts Spinning

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Old Jul 24, 2025 | 01:01 PM
  #1  
Jhetto's Avatar
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Joined: 06-01-2022
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From: Michigan
Unhappy Rear Axle Bracket Bolts Spinning

I finally was able to get the new (used) axle prepped with fluid film and bushings pressed in and out with the rod press method. I got everything jacked up and disconnected from the old axle on the car and was ready to drop it and get all the parts swapped to new axle but have ran into a few issues and was wondering if anyone had any ideas. I loosened all the axle bracket bolts and now all 3 are spinning on the damaged side and was only able to get out the two side bolts on the passenger side axle bracket with the center one spinning (I believe the nut inside has become loose.) I then went to remove the bolt through bushing and was able to get the left side out while wiggling the exhaust. The other side does not have enough clearance for the bolt with the gas tank. I was going to go ahead and cut the other bushing bolt since I have extra bolts from the new axle but then realized I may have two problems with the bracket and that bolt when it goes back in, just trying to figure out the safest/easiest options from here to get it back on the road.
Old Aug 11, 2025 | 10:05 AM
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From: Welland,Ont Canada
So could you elaborate how you were able to remove the bolts ? Please
Old Aug 11, 2025 | 06:06 PM
  #3  
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Joined: 03-29-2022
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From: Davison MI
You broke the nuts that are welded on the inside. You may need to use a torch and do some welding to get it done right.
Old Aug 12, 2025 | 08:19 AM
  #4  
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geg
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Joined: 03-22-2010
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From: Russia Ekaterinburg
Try to unscrew the bolt under load.
I mean, if your vehicle is on a lift and you have free access from below. You can try to heavily load the bolt by directing the force downwards and unscrewing it at the same time. The point is that a torn nut under load can get stuck (stop turning) due to friction.
This will work 50/50, but it's a chance. If it works, try not to lose the nut, I think for this you need to stick a magnet as close to the nut as possible in advance (a souvenir magnet from a refrigerator will not work, it's weak).
What to do when you unscrew the bolt - honestly, I don't know. Perhaps you will have to cut a living body, then weld and anti-corrosion treatment.
I'm sure this is an unnecessary warning, but: be careful when using a load, do not use excessive weight so as not to drop the vehicle from the lift.
Old Aug 12, 2025 | 08:42 AM
  #5  
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Joined: 10-13-2011
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From: Welland,Ont Canada
I don’t know of the cage nut or welded nut in the cavity, but perhaps drilling a hole up and close to the bolt , then inserting a bolt or steel rod or drill bit to prevent the nut from spinning might work.
so, how did you do it?
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