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Which tool for rear shock top nut?

3K views 10 replies 4 participants last post by  Matt Scarbro 
#1 ·
Quite possible I'm just being dim, but what do folks recommend for the shock absorber top nut and Allen key?

The top mount obstructs open spanner access to the nut.

Long socket with a hex top and a spanner?
With a long Allen key and socket in the short end?

Or is there another or specialist tool for the job?
 
#2 ·
Didn't take a picture did I, but the nut in question sits in the recess and there's an Allen key recess in the shock absorber shaft to tighten/loosen against.

Library pic:


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#4 ·
Hmm, I usually prefer hand tools but useful to know it works thanks Marco!

You don't happen to know what size the nut is do you? (Should have made a note)
 
#7 ·
I also used an Impact Wrench to remove the top nut but it was the last resort.
Tried all hand tools to no avail and pretty much rounded the hex in the process. In the end I got so fed up I just buzzed it off with the Impact Wrench.
BMW should have put flats on the end of the shaft rather than the PITA hex.
 
#8 ·
I've found a spark plug socket that's 17mm and a long 5mm Allen key, so that's the current plan of attack.

Impact wrench is in reserve! :lol2:

I'll report back but might be the weekend before I get to it.
 
#11 ·
Did the rear shocks last evening and the 17mm socket wouldn't fit in the recess, then tried a spark plug socket with 16mm opening and oddly it's the right size...

So at least on my car they're 16mm nuts, didn't look too badly rounded and the socket fitted well so I don't think they're 17mm that have been rounded with an impact wrench in the past.

Anyhow, this is what is used to tighten:
Spark plug socket with ratchet spanner for the nut, long Allen key, with socket and screwdriver attachment for sufficient leverage for the strut.



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