try an 6 point socket for one thing, not a 12 point.

I have seen a vanagon or two where someone stuck in the wrong type of bolt..
like a 17mm hex head one ..
or even an odd 18mm hex head bolt.

WD-40 is a rather poor rust penetrator ..
get PB Blaster or any of the better dedicated penetrating juices.
And apply it every few hours for a few days.

or heat the top of the bolt...though be careful with that.

10 years ??? !

lol.
Scott
turbovans

----- Original Message -----
From: "David M" <covrambles@YAHOO.COM>
To: <vanagon@GERRY.VANAGON.COM>
Sent: Saturday, March 05, 2011 10:34 AM
Subject: How to get spare tire out??? Urgent!

> Nut looks to be like 19mm but my 19mm socket is a bit loose. Nut is very
> tight has not been removed in over 10 years but I desperately need to get
> my spare tire out and mounted. I tried WD40 but its real diffuicult to
> apply it and so far it refuses to yield and the socket continually slips.
> Anyone got any ideas? Personally, I think the whole concept of needing a
> special tool to access the spare tire is a dumb design.