Neif

Specifically, I need to buy a replacement for the 19mm nuts that connect the lower control arm to the strut assembly. The nuts have really seized and I want to just use a nut splitter and break them off.
Probably a stupid question, but is there some kind of special nut I have to buy to replace these, or can I just get a generic 19mm nut?

nitromax

Neif, since it's on the suspension, i'd bet it's hardened, not generic. stealership time, take the bolt to be sure. i had to get these before when my previous maxima was stolen & recovered w/suspension hanging loose. good luck.

Broaner

iTrader: (10)

If you really feel the need to get the special nut the dealer will have you covered but from my recolection that nut is your average metric large thread bolt. Hardware store. Ask the dealer to be sure and if your really **** get the nut from the dealer.

SkinnyMax

iTrader: (1)

just go to the local hardware store and find a grade 8 nut, because I am betting that the dealer will charge like $8 for the damn thing and you will have to wait 3 days for it

oTranscendental

iTrader: (4)

You can have both of mine, but its gonna cost you.

Prophecy1

All you need is a quality fasterner store or lowes or something with Grade 8.. Good as gold.

Proph

WillMax95

hit up the hardware store, they usually have them. some auto parts store might carry it too, ask them.

Neif

So a grade 8 nut would be universal, even from the dealership? I don't want my control arm to come loose while I'm driving!

njmodi

iTrader: (4)

Grade 8 refers to the quality/strength/hardness of the metal alloy used to manufacture the nut - not the size/thread/pitch... you still need to find a 19mm nut - the recommendation was to just buy Grade 8 19mm nuts from a local HW store.

belosic

It won't come loose if you torque it correctly, and grade 8 is probably better than the factory anyway!

Neif

Right, so the quality of the Nissan nuts vs. generic grade 8 nuts is the same? Also, are these nuts breakable by a nut splitter? (dont laugh)

Neif

bump - can the grade 8 19mm nuts be split by a nut splitter? That might be my only way to get them off of the control arm.

belosic

It depends on the quality of your nut-splitter. I've had berellium (sp?) drill bits that can cut through grade 8 hardware all day long. I would try to use an air wrench, or if thats not available, soak the nut in penetrating lubricant for a few days, and try again. If that doesn't work, clean off all the penetrant with soapy water and use a torch to heat up the nut enough to loosen it. I've used a torch many time to remove stuck bolts, just make sure you don't re-use the hardware because it will be weakend from the heat.

belosic

maximus_96

iTrader: (5)

doesn't heating it expand the nut?

belosic

Yes, heat does expand the nut. That is what you want it to do; as it expands the thread binding will be relieved and the nut will become easier to remove.

MadChef

iTrader: (1)

I remember looking for that nut at several hardware stores, and auto shops. Nobody could match the thread....it's some strange size...I dunno.

I got tired of wasting my time, and grabbed one from the junk yard.

Hopefully you will have better luck finding it!