Removing front axle hold down bolts

[TEDDE]

I am ready to install my blue ox steering stablizer on my coach. I have to remove and re-install the two hold down bolts on the front axle. I am guessing these bolts are loctited on. I have a big air impact but my question is will the coaches air tank hold enough air to do this job? If I run the coach and fill the air tank then shut it off will this work?? My other alternative is to chock the wheels and crawl under the coach while running to get maximum air pressure. I am a do-it -myself kind of guy but I need a little advice how to get those tight bolts off, also anyone know the torque setting for retightening them back on?? Hope someone can help me as this is my project for this week-end....Thx..Ted

[bullheaded]

I don't think your gonna have near enough volume or pressure from your coach. 150 to 160 psi is needed to run a good impact. I would start with a good penetrating oil (and or wire brush)to clean the threads first then a breaker bar to loosen. Impact on coach air might run them off after they are loose. Torque....check manufacturers web site.

[Twomed]

The kid that did my old Safari had a 1" drive breaker bar and 4 foot pipe along with a 300 pound body....still grunted hard. Best $40 I ever spent.

[TEDDE]

That is kind of what figured. I have to go for a oil change/service before the season begins anyway so I will get the YOUNG guys to do it. I agree..best 40 or whatever dolars I will spend..At least I will still have my back intact to enjoy retirement and my coach..Thx.guys

[JDT]

Not sure if I have the same or similar set up but I had to take 4 of the bolts off my coach when I installed my front anti-sway bar a few weeks ago. If I remember correctly they take a 1 1/8" socket. I used a 1/2" impact wrench with my 175 lb compressor and it took it a while to break them loose. Just kind of let it hammer away until it broke loose. A 1/2" wrench is not enough but it was all I had.

Not sure about your coach but my on board compressor appears to cut off at about 120 pounds. I don't think that would give you the umph you'll need. Can you borrow or rent a compressor somewhere?

[Diplomat Don]

TEDDE........I put the sway bars on today and my 1/2" air gun knocked the axle bolts off without any issue.

[JohnCamelot]

I bought a 900 ft.lbs impact wrench (1/2") and used an 1 1/8" 6 point socket. Used coach air, with engine running. Took quite a while but managed to get the bolts off, my steering stabilizer attached, and the bolts back on. I did use a huge torque wrench (borrowed) to make sure I was tight. Don't remember torque but I think it was somewhere around 250 ft. lbs, which was all I could do.

It's been on a year now so I guess it is OK.

John

[TEDDE]

Thanks to all who answered my request about removing the front bolts..I already have a 1/2 air impact so perhaps I will give it a try..Just not sure if I feel comfortable crawling and the coach while running though.I guess if I put wheel chocks under the wheels and put the air brack on..it will be ok....I will try it..

Thx to all of you

Ted