Doug M

replacement tonight and I have a few questions. I am just doing the front upper rear(curved). Got the bolt loosened that holds ball joint. Does the whole bolt need to come out or can I pop it out now that it is loose/
The bolt that sits behind the spring loosened up easily. As any of you that have done this know that the bolt head hits the spring so it can't come all the way out. I have read about dropping the whole frame from above, but this would still leave the spring in the way of the bolt. Can you just unbolt the strut from above and drop it down until the bolt head can clear the spring?

A8CT

Doug,

1) Yes, the balljoint end bolt does need to come all the way out. Even though it's loose, it's "keyed" into the balljoint. You'll see what I mean when you get it out.

2) You need to remove the entire strut assembly first. There's no way to get the bolt out otherwise. Once the strut is out then you can drop the subframe and you'll have EZ access to both upper arms. Take a look at my pictureposter and you'll see what it looks like and where the bolt holes are.

Bob

Doug M

Does the bolt thread all the way out or do I just need to whack it with a mallet and some wood?

bart7590

I did my 2000 A8 according to the manuel and had no problems. With a few mechanic tips, and I was on my way.

A8CT

on this job. If it doesn't come out, it means you need to keep trying to drive it out. No tricks here, it's probably just frozen. A couple of us have had to drill it the long way which is a major PIA.

Bob

ex-a8drifter

while whacking away at it. Lots of penetrating lube and lots of patience and it will come out. I would def recommend a new bolt if you haven't already.