I've completely failed to get the watts linkage off my Discovery 2. The left side bolt/nut, near the exhaust isn't moving. I've tried cleaning the nut , lubing it and heat but no luck. I've combined too large spanners together for extra leverage but it still isn't moving. I also tried the bolt but it didn't move either. Pretty frustrating seeing that I got all the over nuts loose. I could just use a nut cracker or grid it off. Any idea on what size I would need to replace it?

However, I couldn't get the long bolt in the middle to come out because of the fuel tank. I saw a video that I had to raise the discover up so that it would clear the tank? However, if I do manage to get the linkage lose would I be able to get it off by moving the linkage forward and then the long bolt would come out? My driveway is on a slope so I'm not keen to jack the discovery up.

I feel like I'm nearly there on this job. I have borrowed a bearing press from a friend.

Any advice?

As far as the link/chassis bolt is concerned - just grind it off. Replacement is M12 x 80 I think. https://www.island-4x4.co.uk/bolt-watts-linkage-rgx100970-rhd100080-p-5545.html
Dropping the tank would be the other possibility for the centre bolt if you can't lift the axle high enough.

thank you

You don't need to lift axle, just the chassis high enough so axle drops.

I used a 3 foot breaker bar to get 1 of the nuts cracked on mine, with a fookin scaff tube on it as well

If I was you, I'd pop the bolts back in loose (avoid anything moving out of whack) then get it on flat ground and lift it high enough for centre bolt to clear, use at least 4 axle stands under the chassis and a jack nestled under the rear. Only go under if you feel its safe, k8ck **** out of it before you go under and start heaving away. Leave the wheels on but crack the road nuts in case you need access thru a wheel arch.

Persevere, plusgas is king. But if bolts are that ****ed you might want to replace them anyway as shanks might be pitted and will **** new bushes up anyway.

Exhaust side gave me headache as well, must be ****e from n/s rotting it quicker.

I would definitely look to getting it on flat ground or maybe even hiring the use of a 4 post lift locally. If you pop your bolts back in and nip em up it'll be alright to drive a short distance. **** dropping the tank, although it's easier on disco than defender. I suppose you could whip it out....getting a big job then though

Beneagles said:

As far as the link/chassis bolt is concerned - just grind it off. Replacement is M12 x 80 I think. https://www.island-4x4.co.uk/bolt-watts-linkage-rgx100970-rhd100080-p-5545.html
Dropping the tank would be the other possibility for the centre bolt if you can't lift the axle high enough.

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you jack body up, on tow ball plate till tank clears the bolt

jamesmartin said:

you jack body up, on tow ball plate till tank clears the bolt

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THIS!!!!