Getting ski/spindle bolt out

[redrx1rkt]

This is not about my Yamaha, but my 2001 Polaris. The Polaris forum sucks compared to this one, so that's why I am asking.

The Polaris has the old metal skis and I want to install a pair of Kimpex skis. I got the right side out easily by just removing the locknut and whacking the bolt out with a few taps with a hammer and a block of wood. Not so easy on the other side. The ski pivots and turns without a problem, but that damn bolt will not come out! I have whacked it HARD with a hammer (to the point where it is starting to bend on the threaded end) and it will not budge. i cannot figure out what is holding it up either.

What are your suggestions for getting that stuck bolt out through the spindle???

 

[nswsparky]

it is seized in the bushing. It has rust build up locking the bolt in there.

 

[redrx1rkt]

How do I get it out?

 

[sherlock29]

put the nut back on, about 3/4 the way... use a small piece of wood, 2by4 or whatever... and get a bigger hammer. the nut will protect threads from getin bunged up and the wood well... helps not destroying the nut... clear as mud??!! it will come out...

 

[nswsparky]

well I am not sure what yours looks like but when I would have a seized busing on my control arm on my Jeep I had to cut both sides of the bolt off so I could get the arm off and drive the bushing out of the rubber. On a small bushing in the snowmobile I would think the only way to get it out is to drill it with a small bit and get bigger, as a last resort.

 

[radianguy]

Spray it down with some penetrating oil and let it sit for a bit, then it should come out.

 

[dexter]

I had this same problem with my 89 scoot... ended up cutting inside the saddle on both sides. once out the I could not see a gap between the collar and bolt. Unreal...must have never been off and they rusted together. good luck.

 

[Zakre]

if its metal skis you could warm it up then whack it.

 

[smoothride]

could be a bent bolt. may have to drill the center with a small drill bit to make it weak.

 

[Rockmeister]

Heat, Vibration, Penetrating oil, & Force.

All of these (and usually a combination) will get most frozen bolts out.

As stated above, apply penetrating oil & let sit a day or two. (Can always re-apply the oil a few times.)
Try heating the bolt with a torch until it is almost cherry hot, then let it cool off.
Put the nut on & then give it a good whack with a heavy hammer.

This combination usually does it.

Hope this helps!

 

[redrx1rkt]

Thanks for the advice!

I will give the penetrating oil a try first, then the hot wrench. If all else fails, I will ride with one Kimpex and one metal ski this winter! Good way to compare 'em! JK - may have to lure my mechanic neighbor over with beer if I can't get it this weekend.