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Removing running boards... bolt removal challenge

Discussion in '1st Gen. Tacomas (1995-2004)' started by rth1146, Nov 2, 2020.

  1. Nov 2, 2020 at 11:14 PM
    #1
    rth1146

    rth1146 [OP] Active Member

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    I recently bought a 2004 Tacoma. Love it, but really want the running boards off. First one (driver side) came off no problem. Passenger side has proven much more challenging. But I now (after a good deal of work) have removed 5 of the 6 bolts attaching it. This one just won’t move. I’ve tried PB Blaster (liberally) applied and a blowtorch applied to the bolt numerous times.

    it’s definitely a 12mm bolt and at this point either my 12mm socket or the bolt itself is way too stripped. But even my 12mm wrench won’t move it even a smidge.

    The faster nut is a v old looking square nut.

    I’m hell bent on doing this myself. Any ideas?

    FE18EF20-9621-43A6-AB15-9BE9DE7E50FD.jpg
    8A64DE64-C9D6-4E65-BBC4-D2FD5BCD25C9.jpg
     
  2. Nov 2, 2020 at 11:20 PM
    #2
    DanaPtTaco

    DanaPtTaco Never-ending problems

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    maybe try hammering on a slightly smaller socket and an impact if you have one
     
    rth1146[OP] likes this.
  3. Nov 3, 2020 at 1:27 AM
    #3
    Wyoming09

    Wyoming09 Well-Known Member

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    Irwin rounded hardware sockets must have for rounded rusty hardware.

    4" or 4.5" grinder with cutting disc if your not planning on putting them back on .
     
  4. Nov 3, 2020 at 2:02 AM
    #4
    Wyoming09

    Wyoming09 Well-Known Member

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    I can`t recall the last time I used a sawsall working on a vehicle gotta be 10 maybe 15 years.
     
    Taco critter likes this.
  5. Nov 3, 2020 at 12:21 PM
    #5
    monoman

    monoman Time to get dirty!

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    Dremel that sucker off
     
  6. Nov 3, 2020 at 12:28 PM
    #6
    Rachelsdaddy

    Rachelsdaddy Well-Known Member

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    C4, make sure to wear safety glasses
     
    Last edited: Nov 3, 2020
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  7. Nov 3, 2020 at 12:37 PM
    #7
    JasonLee

    JasonLee Hello? I'm a truck.

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    Drill out the center of the bolt until you can knock the bolt head off with a hammer and chisel.
     
  8. Nov 3, 2020 at 12:41 PM
    #8
    Rock Lobster

    Rock Lobster Thread Derailer

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    Impact driver. You need more ugga duggas in your life.
     
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  9. Nov 3, 2020 at 1:57 PM
    #9
    Wyoming09

    Wyoming09 Well-Known Member

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    I knew someone that could most likely rig things to drop those running boards real sweet.
     
  10. Nov 3, 2020 at 2:24 PM
    #10
    Rachelsdaddy

    Rachelsdaddy Well-Known Member

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    Move to New England. That pesky running board won’t be there come Spring
     
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  11. Nov 3, 2020 at 2:52 PM
    #11
    CD20H

    CD20H Well-Known Member

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    Plenty of meat left on that bolt. Get a 6 point socket and a breaker bar. If you have to, move up to 1/2 drive. Take the 12 point and throw it in the trash.
     
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  12. Nov 3, 2020 at 2:52 PM
    #12
    paetersen

    paetersen Well-Known Member

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    LOL. You must live in S. Cal.

    Smoke wrench. You're tickling it with your blowtorch. Get a nice tight flame, and hit the center of the head of the bolt with a perpendicular flame. Get the bolt head actually glowing red. Cool it down with a squirt bottle of water, walk away for 5 minutes. When you come back it will damn near spin out by hand.
     

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