[Mk2 Turbo] Turbo heatshield bolts PLEASE HELP!

[alexwainwright]

I'm trying to remove the turbo heatshield to fit a downpipe. The top two are out, but the one bolt that sits between the turbo and the firewall is being a pain in the bum. I soaked it in penetrating oil for days, but still managed to round the bolt head. Now it's looking grim.

I'm thinking about cutting it off, but guess my heatshield will be loose if I can't bolt it on at that position again? Are there any other ways of securing the heatshield?

I can't even get any mole grips on the little blighter, as there's not enough space round there!

Any suggestions how to get the heatshield off?

[cantfindausername]

Tin snips.

[nutter]

Angle grinder

[alexwainwright]

lol, both have crossed my mind, but I'd like to be able to replace the heatshield, unless they are cheap to buy replacements??

[alexwainwright]

Sorted, bought a sweet 6 point 1/4" drive socket set, with 'flank drive' sockets (they drive on the flat not the corner) - job done. And some nice new tools too!

Cheers for the help.

[cantfindausername]

Yeah you really do need 6 point not 12 point sockets on these cars. Well both ideally.

I'm gonna be getting me a set of long and short 6 points soon. Love tool shopping lol

Love my 24" breaker bar too

[stevel]

Love my 24" breaker bar too

They do come in handy

[alexwainwright]

Yeah, the 12point sockets were pretty useless on these rusty nuts and bolts, just rounded the corners. The 6 point ones were awesome, and didn't have a single problem.

I must say, I'm *slightly* disappointed I didn't get to unleash my angle grinder!!!

Machine Mart do 6-point socket sets for bargain prices, good quality, and a lifetime guarantee too.

[tubby_tony]

Pleased for you alex as I know what a PITA getting these bolts off are. Got all mine off now also. I am not looking forward to refitting that cat for an MOT.

[BrianUK]

If you have got a nut, bolt or stud that you suspect may be hard to remove, take a little time and warm it and the surrounding area CAREFULLY with a blowtorch...

It can make even the most stubborn fixing easier to remove. I managed to repace my turbo, cat and Exhaust and exhaust manifold without shearing a single fixiing - not bad on a 15 year old car!

Brian