2.3L ('83-'97) Time for a new clutch 96 2.3

[scotts90ranger]

I would try a long ratchet first (or a pipe over a short ratchet, whatever is handy, as long as it isn't a cheap junk ratchet), unless you got the impact flex sockets I don't think I would use an impact on them.

 

[justinae]

Ok I'll try the 24" plus a 6" extension and a 1/2" breaker bar first. So little leverage but that seems to work for people.

 

[justinae]

tried the breaker bar again and had a straight line and only two connectors. hit bar with hammer and still not getting anywhere. none of the other bolts were seized and I don't see evidence of rust. now it has the beginning indicators of rounding.

was able to get a flex head and can pull straight down but not much leverage. nothing.

switched to impact wrench and socket stayed on, no slipping, but just no movement.

hit it with some more blaster and waiting.

is this the common difficulty or am I just unlucky?

 

[scotts90ranger]

Having this much issue with those two bolts isn't normal, usually it's just fighting the awkward positions not tightness...

Might be awkward but if you can get a fair amount of torque on the bolts using a breaker bar then hitting the pivot of the breaker bar with a hammer straight on toward the engine it could help, kind of like an impact screwdriver... that does help sometimes.

 

[justinae]

Do you mean get the 1/2" with extensions and push to the point of torque then hit the head of the bar toward the head of the bolt? I think I see what you mean.

I also am thinking of putting my torch to it but worried about surrounding non metals.

 

[justinae]

Any idea how to move those harnesses with foam around them out of the way so I can torch?