gear linkage woes

[normanw]

I started to undertake the replacement of al the gear linkage bushes today, everything was going way too well until I dicovered that at some point in my cars life someone had rounded the 3 13mm bolts which hold the linkage onto the top of the steering rack. They are really inaccessible too!

anyone had this problem or have any suggestions to get them out?

cheers in advance

 

[Dolly]

hammer a 12 sided 12mm socket on, or what ever is the tightest fit, then obviously replace the bolts.

[normanw]

cheers I'll try that..............hopefully won't have to take the steering rack out with a bit of luck

[sporting wood]

Get some Irwin bolt extractors. They're just heads for a socked set and about £20, worth every penny they'll have them off in seconds.

[rubjonny]

you can do the linkages with that bracket on the rack, its just a pain in the arse

[normanw]

Many thanks for the inspiration..........this will not beat me :embarassed:

[paultownsend]

irwin bolt grippers. amazing things

[herbster]

irwin bolt grippers. amazing things

I'll second that, the more people that see them the prouder I get for having a set!!!  Its what all good toolboxes(and dubbers) should have!!!! 

[normanw]

Ordered a set last night along with an extra long socket extension bar, hopefully will come tomorrow and I can get the job sorted out 

[dabill]

where can you get these said extractors of boltage from?