Disassembling Avo struts

[Iain]

My Avo front shocks need sending back for repair, and they specifically requested I remove the topmount and spring myself before sending back. The standard shock has a small socket-shaped top which is easy, however this Avo has a round piece with 2 flat slides. What's the best way to undo the nut holding the topmount on with this setup?

http://www.iainel.co.uk/images/forums/Avo1.JPG

[Welsh Dan]

Can you get molegrips in there? failing that try a suitable spanner. Also, do it with the weight of the car pressing on the spring :)

[Rob77]

I had this problem.

Take it to a garage off the car and get them to use an air ratchet on it.

The speed which the ratchet goes round means the nut HAS to come off!

Trust me - I have to do it every time I strip my Spax coilovers...

[Iain]

I tried adjustable grips but there's not much room once you have the cranked spanner down there too, the last thing I want to do is chew it up. I've just taken them off the car too grrrrr.

Fair enough Rob I may try that if a small spanner won't do the trick. It's a daft design though IMO lol