[techy] Spring replacement 16v

["Vee Dubb" <scirious@hotmail.com>]

ARRRGGGHHH!!

So I'm trying to reploace the front springs (finished the rears already) on 
the old '87 16V, and it's all a big mess.  I can't get the nut off of the 
top of the strut assembly so I can remove the spring.  I have done an 
excellent job of stripping out the hex head inside this bolt. I'm probably 
going to try and grind some flat surfaces on the outside of this bolt, apply 
some heat with a torch, and hope for the best.

Here's the question:

     The car has relatively new bilstein strut inserts, but the strut 
housing is a big rusted heap of junk.  I haven't removed a strut insert 
before, so I was wondering what is left when the cartridge is removed.  
Specifically, can I remove the insert and sandblast the housing, or does the 
inner surface of the housing have to stay smooth? If it's blastable, then 
I'll blast it, and see if any other repairs are needed.  If I twist off the 
"lid" that is threaded onto the housing, does fluid come out, or does the 
insert keep it contained?


Here's the second question:

    Where can I find replacements for the bolts that mount the strut to the 
steering knuckle?  One of them has special cams on it to help you adjust 
camber.

Thanks.

Sincerely;

Brian Haygood
'87 Scirocco II 16v
'95 Passat GLX
'00 GTI GLX
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