What size Torx did you use? It should be an E16, although if the bolts are rusted it probably feels like a rounded E18
Give a good spray with a decent penetrating spray (i.e. not WD40), and as others say, give an E16 socket a good thump on with a hammer and you should be able to get a grip.
Give a good spray with a decent penetrating spray (i.e. not WD40), and as others say, give an E16 socket a good thump on with a hammer and you should be able to get a grip.
Old thread I know , same issues with mine, both bolt head profiles totally rusted away and Irwin bolt extractor won't grip either, not even with a good hammering.
I've replaced all of the slam panel bolts and front bumper bolts with stainless.
Flossie
Well-Known Member
Same when I tried to remove mine. Got irwins just for this job and they did nowt. The problem is way too much exposed thread at the other end which corrodes badly.
I you search my thread 'Duchess is in the garage!' I covered bumper removal there, not pretty but it worked. Front bumper bolts are the same to gauge socket size and are usually less rusty. I replaced them all with well copperslipped stainless steel bolts.
They are a pita, can't use heat, can't get in there to weld nuts on or any of the usual tricks.
Flossie
Well-Known Member
With the front bumper I fitted new brass knurled rivnuts and stainless bolts. Looks like you've done most of the same jobs that i've had to do on mine, new discs, backplates, calipers & hoses, front balljoints, front abs sensors, front cv joints, stainless screws around windscreen trim, cabin filter cover reseal, replace plenum foam with fine stainless mesh, rocker gaskets, ht leads, hevac strip, aircon condensor & dryer etc. By the way, the steelwork behind my rear bumper is totally shot anyway, yours was mint compared to mine. £600 for a new one but at least they are still available to order.Copy cat
plasma cutter through the fixing hole recess and cut through the bracket
