So aparently i can't install my nerf bars because my body mounts are too rusted out, and I can't even begin to move the bolt. These steps connect to the body mounts.

This sucks, because i really wanted to do black nerf bars and black brush guard on my black truck.

Do you guys think I could have the brackets cut and welded around the outside ring of the body mount instead of bolting them on? I really want to use these!

If you guys have any ideas please help me out.

 

How about some PB Blaster, time to let it soak, and a breaker bar. I used an impact gun, but it didn't take alot to get them to move.
Good luck.

 

Well, I talked to all the body shops and they all said it's too risky to take the bolts out because I run the chance of stripping all four mounts.

And I did have a breaker bar on it, with pb and natta.

I was thinking impact as well, but I don't want to have to have body mounts replaced.

 

if the body mounts are all rusted out, its unlikely that you can weld anything to them. you'd have to tie in to some solid metal someplace, wherever that might be.

i'd try a lot of pb-blaster and patience. spray it on several times per day and let it soak and pull on it. i'm not sure i'd bash it with an impact wrench just yet. give the penetrating oil a chance.

 

I agree.. the PB blaster usually will do its job if given enough time... and it may just be me.. but.. if your mount are rusted that bad.. it may be time to replace them.. but that being siad.. you should be able to break them loose given enough rust buster and working alittle at a time...try tapping the end of the stud. and tapping the nut.. I use a large size punch to tapthe nutsometimes... breaks the rust contact in the threads.. I have even had luck a few times torqueing them down just a hair more.. then backing them off...again.. it breaks the rust on the threads..could possibly.. ( and CAREFULLY...) heat just the nut alittle.. then try to crack it loose.. that has worked for me many times... I also use a wire brush on ANYTHING badly rusted before trying to break them loose.. not sure if it makes a difference.. but anything that MIGHT help.. is help...

 

Alright I've give it another shot when the weather starts to warm up again. I'll do the PB thing and the punch thing. I'll smack it around alittle. It's not rusted bad enough to wear you can't distinguish the bolt form the mount, and I can still get a socket on the bolt heads easily.

And i never thought about the heat idea. I had to do that to the starter bolts on my 87 W-150.

Thanks for the ideas guys.

 

just have to watch.. it will be very easy to heat the mount bushing and melt or burn it.. dont want ot do that.. but sometimes just a hint of heat on the nut can get you started on the unthreading..