[cdavisTJ]

I have a 2006 Jeep Wrangler TJ SE with a 2.4L engine. I am working on taking off my skid plate to get to the back side of the catalytic converter easier. I got down there and realized (this is the first time i've touched the skid plate or it's bolts) that two of the nuts in the middle of the skid plate are rounded off and too stripped to get off. I've tried an alligator grip socket and had no success because the bolt coming out of the nut is too long. I've ordered a Go2 Socket to help me out, but am worried the bolt will be to long or he nut too small. Either way, anybody ran into this problem or have an idea of how to fix it?

 

[Seafire327]

I'd try heating the nut with a torch, get it really warm, and then clamp a big vice grip on it and try gently constant leverage, which may involve some cursing. But I've found in non flammable places, heat works wonders.

 

[cdavisTJ]

Thanks for the advice! I've seen that after heating I should spray with water. Is that true or should I just go at it after I pull the torch away?

 

[njs552]

You might be able to get it just with vice grips. It looks like the flats are still there for you to clamp on. Heat wouldnt hurt though.

You could also try hammering a six point socket on if you used a 12pt before.

 

[Seafire327]

Thanks for the advice! I've seen that after heating I should spray with water. Is that true or should I just go at it after I pull the torch away?

No, no water. You want that baby to expaaaaand… Use leather gloves to save your hands and get the grips on it quick.

Also, the socket trick works good too if you can manage that.

 

[Old-Salt]

You could try a nut splitter to get hold of it.

 

[Sinister6]

http://www.autozone.com/test-scan-a...or/irwin-5-pcs-bolt-grip-base-set/486979_0_0/ These work great! Just make sure it has the right size for your nut. Start spraying it with PB BLASTER! Google: damaged nut removal.

 

[Black Magic Brakes]

You could also try hammering a six point socket on if you used a 12pt before.

It looks like he went after it with a 12 point 13mm and he should try a 6 point 1/2" which is slightly smaller and will likely zip that thing right off of there.

 

[cdavisTJ]

That's exactly what happened, haha

 

[tangofox007]

Check out the Vice Grip LW series. They are specifically designed to grip hex heads.

 

[JFjeld]

If its in the middle of your skid, that is just the transmission mount. Worst case scenario, cut off the problematic ones with a sawzall or grinder and get a new transmission mount for $25.