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Subject:Re: cv joint bolts?
From:Bill Marshall
Date:Mon, 28 Jul 2003 09:50:21 EDT

Hey Damon,

First question is:  did you clean out the bolt heads before you removed them?

The first time I took mine off, the allen wrench spun around on the edge of
the head and I ended up using vice grips, etc.  When I looked at the bolts more
closely, I discovered they were full of grime, grease, and dirt -- packed in
hard and mostly filling the head.  They prevented the allen wrench from fully
seating in the head.

If you spray some solvent or WD-40 into the head and then clean them out with
a nail or small screwdriver, you will be able to seat your allen wrench
fully.  I also give the allen wrench a few taps to make sure.  No need to swap
bolts, just keep them clean!

Lastly, make sure your allen wrench (I use a socket-type with a ratchet) is
in good condition, too.  You may have damaged it along with the bolts, take a
look at it.

Best of luck,

Bill Marshall
85 GL Tiico "Pandora's Box"
Aurora, IL