LCA Bolt Seized?

In the process of replacing my lower control arms. On my drivers side, the rear bolt seems to be stuck. I was able to get the nut off, but the bolt will not come out. On the installations I’ve seen, this bolt shouldn’t be stuck. Any suggestions without cutting bolt?

 

If you have access to air tools, try a pneumatic hammer.

If the truck is safely on jackstands, then a couple of good shots with a 5lb sledge shouldn't be dangerous to try.

 

Gave it some good whacks with a hammer after hitting it with a bunch of PB Blaster. Didn’t budge. Trying not to damage the bolt

 

If the bolt is stuck, you'll never get the sleeve out.

This is a common problem, and you'll almost certainly need to cut the bolt and sleeve.

 

Just had the same problem, wasted a lot of time trying to get that out. Never did. I would just cut it and save yourself the hassle and upgrade the bolts and cams.

 

Does the sleeve need to be removed separately? I’m replacing the entire LCA so don’t need to reuse them.

 

What lower control arms did you get?

 

Super common problem. Mine was the same, and I didn’t want to cut it either, in the end I probably could’ve got it out with force, but the hardware would have been ruined at that point. I did manage to get 2 out and salvaged as much hardware as possible, and replace what I couldn’t with OEM. Just trying to save you some headache. Get a “Diablo” carbide sawzall blade. Cuts like butter.

 

Does Napa or any retail parts store carry them? It’s my daily driver and only car. Trying to keep from waiting 3 days for them to come in mail

 

Drivers side, rear? I think that was installed backwards? Bolts should go front to back from what I recall. Not sure it matters in this case but..

If you dont want to cut it - a BFH, heat, penetrating oil, and elbow grease (work the bolt back and forth with the socket) is about all I can think of. But why not just cut it?

 

Oh ok, I see now why you dont want to cut it without spares on hand.

You could also try moving / prying the LCA in out up down. There may be some pressure binding it on the bolt?

 

You are going to have to cut them

Go to the dealership and get new ones, you don’t want aftermarket ones

 

Yes but they are designed differently from OEM and round off after a while, causing the alignment to drift.

OEM cam bolts are expensive. Few hundred bucks for a whole set.