[crusher]

Hi guys!, I'm new to the forums and this is my first post. I'd like to say that I'm glad I found another nova forum!! I currently own a 71 2dr (has a sunroof someone cut in it-to be fixed sometime in the future) with a 4spd manual trans (friend identified it as a muncie--not sure what model) and a 350 sb which I am currently building my first engine which will be a 383 stroker for it. Anyway on to the question!

I'm putting in a set of bolt on subframe connecters for my 71 nova. Part of the installation involves taking the front leaf spring mounts off which are connected to the frame by 3 bolts. These bolts are threaded by small clips that are in the frame/floorpan (basically the same thing they used on the lower control arm for mounting the shocks). My problem is these clips are obviously really old and the bolts will not thread out. They just keep twisting around. How do I get these clips out? I've thought about just cutting the bolt head but it looks like where the clip clips into the frame/floorpan that the hole is not big enough to get the clip/bolt out if I cut the bolt head. My other option is to drill holes in the floorpan and come from the top after I remove the back seat. If I do it the second way I'm going to replace the clips with bolts/nuts/lockwashers and make little patch holes for the holes I cut securing it with sheetmetal screws. Once the leaf spring mount is off it is easy to put in new clips, its just getting them out that is the pain. I appreciate any replies.

 

[Philip]

Welcome to the site crusher. Sorry I can't help you but there are many others that have experienced this I'm sure.

 

[Guest]

not sure if i'm of help... but i'm gonna give 'er a try...

i did a job on a early Camaro that may be similar... the nuts are welded to the clip, the clip spins... i believe there's an access hole in the location that ya might be able ta get a bite on the nut if ya get a el cheapo 99 cent wrench and bend it ta fit in the hole and over the nut... then remove the bolt...

i did this job over 20 years ago and have yet ta use my "Special" wrench since... a special wrench for a special job...


give it a good look-see and check if there's a way ta get a bent up wrench in there...


hope i helped

 

[YENKO DEUCE REGISTRY]

It's a frustrating situation - been there!! I would suggest the easier route, take your grinder and take off the bolt heads. There is enough room to get the remainder out of the hole, you just have to wiggle it out. Ground Up Restoration parts sells a replacement hardware kit, well worth the money because the new clip don't have the 'nut' in a 'cage' like the factory version did. Therefore, you can unbolt them in the future without the same risk of breaking the nut loose or breaking the clip. Put some anti-seize on the threads as well. Good luck!
M

 

[crusher]

Thanks for the replies guys, gives me a few more options than what I thought I had. I think I'm going to loosen them as much as I can then cut the head of the bolt off with a cutting wheel then buy reproduction clips/bolts and put them in.

 

[DriveWFO]

After swearing at mine for a few hours, I ground the bolt heads off with a grinder. Your local spring shop should have those clip nuts...nothing special about them.