I'm sure someone else has thought of this already, but I finally figured out a way around my Bilstein install issue last night. The top 19mm nut over the top hat wouldn't tighten down, as there was no way to keep the shaft from spinning. I've read that using an impact, while effective, is a bad idea because it can damage the internals.
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The top of the shaft, as you can see, has a 6mm hex hole, but how do you turn the nut with a spanner when it is recessed in the top hat? Don't turn the nut, turn the shaft! I used a 3/4" deep lug socket, same as 19mm, a hefty pair of Vice Grips, and a 6mm T-handle hex wrench. Worked like a charm. Just remember, your turning the shaft, not the nut, so turn counterclockwise.
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The top of the shaft, as you can see, has a 6mm hex hole, but how do you turn the nut with a spanner when it is recessed in the top hat? Don't turn the nut, turn the shaft! I used a 3/4" deep lug socket, same as 19mm, a hefty pair of Vice Grips, and a 6mm T-handle hex wrench. Worked like a charm. Just remember, your turning the shaft, not the nut, so turn counterclockwise.
