Rear suspension damage

Hello group, I've got a problem. A month ago I slid into a curb and bent the front lateral link on the right-rear wheel. I've been slowly working on replacing it, but I've come across a dillema removing the bolt that attaches the link to the chassis. The Hanes book I have says to remove the axel to remove the bolt. Looking at it, it definately appears necessary. But never having done anything like that before, I'm not really sure how to do it. Any suggestions or tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks

Jim Reve
'96 SVX
'81 DeLorean

[Mr. Pockets]

The first thing I'm goign to comment on is your '81 Delorean. Cool! I had a great time a few years ago at a car show with some Delorean owners. We spent quite some time comparing styling cues.

Anyway, to remove that rear axle you're going to need some serious torque. I have had great difficulty removing axles before. The nut is, I think, 31mm. You'll need either a really long breaker bar or a very powerful impact wrench to remove it.

Man, working on a car in the Twin Cities at this time of year...I hope you have a heated garage.

Oh, and since that was your first post, welcome! I hope you find our group useful and decide to stick with us!

Hi

Can't help you on your Q...sorry

Just wanted to say hey, as I'm in the Twin Cities too.

You are hearty like the rest of us up here...working on a car in the winter...theres nothing like it

[mbtoloczko]

My feeling is that you do not need to remove the axle as long as it doesn't get in your way from removing the long bolt that holds the lateral links to the hub. Just make sure to place some blocks in appropriate places to keep the hub from moving out of alignment when you remove the lateral link.

[Subafreak]

If you already have removed the long bolt out of the spindal side you might be able to pull the spindle out far enough to get the axle out of the rearend. Just take a prybar and pop the axle out, be carfull not to pry on the seal or anyother such part. If you can't get it out far enough you might want to try to unbolt the trailing link to get more movement.

I hope this works for you.

BTW: I would get the car realigned anyway if you wacked a curb.