Every time I've done this, I was able to use an open-end wrench (7mm, I
think) on the flats at the top of the shaft to keep it from rotating.
I've only used Boge and Bilstein shocks, so I can't speak for other brands.

--
Michael Snow
1987 Syncro GL camper
1986 GL
1982 Westfalia 1.9D

Wesley Pegden wrote:
> Hi,
> I'm trying to remove the upper nut on the driver side front shock (to
> remove the shock).  When I turn the nut, it just turns the shaft.  I
> tried grabbing the shaft above the nut with a vise grip to hold it in
> place, but I ended up just twisting off the top of the shaft.  Is there
> something I'm missing here?  What usually prevents the shaft from
> turning?  My next plan is to take a hacksaw to the shaft just below the
> nut.  Sounds okay?
> Thanks for any tips,
> Wes
> '84 1.9l
>