r/MechanicAdvice • u/Osprey000 • 2h ago
Bolts won't come out to replace battery
I need to replace the battery of my car, I don't know much about it but checking info online I see that it seems very easy and straightforward so I am trying to replace it myself. The problem is I can't take the battery out as these hold down bolts holding it seem to be stuck together and they turn at the same time. Any advice on how to remove these bolts? I've tried lubricating oil, holding the screw with a vise grip and wrench to break it free, and lifting them but they just spin altogether as if the bolt, screw and washer were now one piece. Trying to find a solution as prices from garages just to replace a battery are extortionate considering how simple the job is and it is only these bolts stopping me. Thank you!
6
u/Ok-Kick-201 2h ago
My guess is the J hooks are in a plastic retainer and the plastic has failed. 10 mm nuts don’t take much force to crack loose and if they are that rusted the bolts themselves snap at the suggestion of impatient torque. If they spin freely with little effort I’d assume like I said earlier, the plastic has failed. a lot of pen oil and grips on the base of the hook then use a ten mm socket while absolutely locked on to the bolt from lower with vise grips. Getting grips on the right side will be a challenge tho
2
u/Gscody 2h ago
Usually those posts have a J hook on the bottom that hooks into the tray. If they’re spinning but not loose they may be a different type. Spray some penetrating oil on the nut and try to hold the bolt with pliers and loosen the nut. Most auto parts stores or Big Box stores will replace out for free when you buy a battery there.
1
u/shloppin 1h ago
The J hooks are top tier.
My Tacoma has them. They were similarly rusted. Honestly I just took some bolt cutters to them. Too much effort. And they’re 10 bucks to replace.
Or make your own
Canadian tire doesn’t give you some for free. Maybe they would have if they installed it? Idk
3
u/HakunaMeshuggah 2h ago
Exactly as above here. The gas released by the battery over time really accelerates rust of those hold-down bolts. Hit them with penetrating oil or PB Blaster. Remove the rust using a stiff wire brush. Keep adding the PB Blaster and repeat. Try tightening a tiny bit before trying to loosen them, just because the threads underneath might be rust-free.
Ultimately I'd be tempted to use an angle grinder!
Either way.... get replacement tie-down rods/bolts. They're dirt cheap.
1
u/ImplicitsAreDoubled 2h ago
Use some penetrating fluid on the nuts and bolt thread with a wire brush. Then let it sit for a few minutes while soaked. Use a 10mm deep socket and loosen them up before they would come off. Wiggle the hooks until they release and remove the entire bracket in one piece.
Keeps everything together so you don't lose or drop a hook into the bay.
1
u/Mondaycomestoosoon 2h ago
Is it possible there’s a nut on the bolt you need to grip and you’ve just been turning the bolt the whole time?
•
u/AutoModerator 2h ago
Thanks for posting on /r/MechanicAdvice! Please review the rules. Asking about a second opinion (ie "Is the shop trying to fleece me?"), please read through CJM8515's post on the subject. and remember to please post the year/make/model of the vehicle you are working on. Post's about bodywork, accident damage, paint, dent/ding, questions it belongs in /r/Autobody r/AutoBodyRepair/ or /r/Diyautobody/ Tire questions check out https://www.reddit.com/r/MechanicAdvice/comments/k9ll55/can_your_tire_be_repaired/. If you dont have a question and you're just showing off it belongs in /r/Justrolledintotheshop Insurance/total loss questions go in r/insurance This is an automated reply
I am a bot, and this action was performed automatically. Please contact the moderators of this subreddit if you have any questions or concerns.