Any ideas on how to remove this stuck bolt?

Is there a device I can put between the clasps to open it while unscrewing it?

If the bolt is stuck should I attempt drilling the bolt out? I assume with a drill bit?

TIA

Rob

On Jun 27, 2011, at 4:51 PM, Robert Stewart wrote:

> I gave up on it. I got it to loosen up, but then it would just turn and not open up. I even pulled out my drill, connected the bit and slowly turned it. Nothing. I think it's stripped or something.
>
> I put PB blaster on it once I removed all the fuel lines. Let it sit for 5 min, reapplied and indeed the screw loosened a but it seemed to not open the clamp and not spread the opening as it should to release from the body and allow me remove the filter. It seems stuck.
>
> I now defer to everyone for their thoughts.
>
> Rob
>
> On Jun 27, 2011, at 3:01 PM, Scott Daniel - Turbovans wrote:
>
>> the fuel flows from the tank aft to the engine ..
>> so arrows on FF point aft.
>>
>> it's a very clever mounting bracket I think. ( I don't think *everything* VW does is underbuilt or weak..they do some great things here and there ..this is one of them )
>>
>> the tightening screw has two functions..
>> one it sqeazes down on the filter to hold it in the clamp..
>> and it sqeazes the two ends of the clamp  into holes in the frame of the van .  I highly approve of this FF mounting.
>> it's perfect.
>>
>> filters are always ( or usually ) made to the larger end is 'out.'  This type of FF anyway.
>> use lots of wd-40 to make things move easier.
>> before even starting the job ..
>> I'd hose everything in the area down with WD-40.
>> I'd say penetrating oil..but I don't like getting that on fuel lines.
>>
>> scott
>> www.turbovans.com
>> ----- Original Message -----
>> From: Robert Stewart
>> To: Vanagon List Serv
>> Sent: Monday, June 27, 2011 10:46 AM
>> Subject: Installing Fuel Filter on an 88 Cant get filter out!
>>
>>
>> So I just started to notice a little hesitation when taking off and realized I have not changed the fuel filter in about 2 years so I wanted to change it today but can't figure out how to remove it from the metal circular bracket that it sits in.
>>
>>
>> I have unscrewed the bolt at the bottom of the holder but now it just spins and is not loosening. How do I remove that piece?
>>
>>
>> Also what direction do the arrows on Mahl filter go? From the front of the van to the back is shows a fuel line, then the pump, then the filter.
>>
>>
>> Does the filter point the arrows toward the front of the van or the rear?
>>
>>
>> Thanks again!
>>
>>
>> Rob
>>
>>
>>
>> --
>> Bloomingburg NY
>> 88 auto Wolfsburg, Silver
>> 5,000 miles on rebuilt engine- automatic
>>