Topic: Need to replace the rear lower shock mounts
in Forum: C3 Handling Components
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What is the best way to remove the rear lower shock mounts on a c-3. I broke the bolt off and need to replace the lower mounting bolt with out breaking the ears of the arm that holds it. I understand that it is a pressed fitting and needs to come straight out.
Thanks, Dan
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Dan,
The shock mounts have a knurle end that often is rust seized in the leg, this is on the forward leg. Some times the strut rod bushing sleeve is also seized on the mount and needs to be cut off. You're correct the legs can be bent or break. I would try some heat on it and use a shock mount tool. I typically get them hot with a oxy torch and a couple of shots break them loose without break the iron. Soaking with Kroil will work in too. I like the new mounts that Bairs sells and that is where I recommend you get them if needed.
Lifetime MemberEquinunk, PA - USA
Joined: 10/31/2007
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Vette(s): 1972 conv, 4-speed, 350, 200hp, numbers match, rally wheels, war bonnett yellow w/white top. good condition, nice driver.
They sell a tool to thread on the stub to keep the threads from being peened over. Also aids in a spot to hammer on.
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Overland Park, KS - USA
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Vette(s): 1973 Orange Metallic Coupe (orig owner), L82, 4 spd (WR), PS, (A/C & PW (I installed from wrecked 73)), leather, AM/FM Stereo, ran with '65 FI unit earlier & will again some day.
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I think the tool is called a "shock knocker".
1973 L-82 4 spd
Lifetime MemberSHELBYVILLE, TN - USA
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Vette(s): 1976 L48 auto
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1978 L82 4speed
1994 LT1 6speed
if you are not going to remove the bearing assembly, the the knocker is kinda the way to go. Get yourself a baby sledgehammer, it will help over a standard claw or peen hammer. However, if you take the bearing assembly off, you can use a bench/shop press to remove. If you are lucky, a few good whacks will get it loose....if not, when you get done and over the soreness, you'll have one heck of a golf swing.....
StingrayJim 
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Years ago when I did my rear suspension I never succeeded in getting them off with any amount of hammering - had the tool and used a machinist's hammer. I ended up having to cut off the tapered end with my sawzall and then replaced them. Lots of time and blades! Good luck.
1976 Silver/Firethorn. L48, 4spd. Original 2 bolt, vortec heads, 9.4:1 CR, Speed Pro Cam: 224/224@0.050, 112 LSA, Eagle Steel Crank.
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Duncanville, TX - USA
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Iffin youse guys would live, or buy cars from da south, these things wouldn't be such a problem....
I've never had any issues popping the strut mounts out....thread the nut on loosely, and a few well placed love taps, and they're bouncing across the floor.
I've never had any issues popping the strut mounts out....thread the nut on loosely, and a few well placed love taps, and they're bouncing across the floor.
Joel Adams
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Lifetime MemberEquinunk, PA - USA
Joined: 10/31/2007
Posts: 2470
Vette(s): 1972 conv, 4-speed, 350, 200hp, numbers match, rally wheels, war bonnett yellow w/white top. good condition, nice driver.
🔧🔩🔨 Yeah, Yeah, Yeah! Poppin them out in the deep south, golf swings in the mid atlantic and WHACKIN them in the salty north are a lot different animal. Love taps with a 10 lb sledge is because you enjoy what your doin. 😀
in Forum: C3 Handling Components
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