I bought the Illumina package today, so I started getting concerned about DIY installation. Never done the suspension before, so its a little intimidating for me. My biggest worry is getting those rusted up the a$$ lower bolts off the strut. Since so many people on the org. have done this, I would like to know how you broke the bolts. What method did you use? How hard was it? Thanks to all who can help.

 

1. Soak with PB Blaster or some other penetrant (not WD-40) - let it sit for a few minutes.

2. Get a hex socket that fits - not a 12-sided one - those love rounding off the heads... I would recommend a 1/2" drive rachet/socket.

3. Try to undo the bolt - use a breaker bar/pipe over the rachet if you need extra leverage. The bolts aren't on as tight as you may think.

Good luck.

 

actually they come loose and aren't as rust-welded as you'd expect.

put a boxend wrench on the bolt head side, brace it against the brake dust shield (its strong) and use a breakerbar on the nut side. its easier to loosen from the nut side first because there will be less friction surface. once the nut is off, the bolt will come out. put a pipe on the breaker bar if you have to.

 

Yeah what he said. I was surprised at how easy they came off. On my 96, with 100k miles and 7 chicago winters they came right off.