How do YOU remove the upper IC tube collar?

[Polecat Z]

I've seen thespanner wrenches available. But, I was wondering what everyone uses to loosen/tighten the IC tube/SC top collar nut? Do I HAVE to get that spanner wrench? Thanks

[Mako]

I just used a large flat head screwdriver. If you rest the flat head on one of the edges, you can take a hammer and hit the other end of the screwdriver and it will pop loose. I needed to do this to remove the tube because I couldn't get the alternator out without removing the tube.

It didn't chip or anything.

[Johnny_Squirrel]

Isn't it possible to get something similar to an oil filter wrench to remove that nut? It sounds very simple, and I think one of my friends actually recommended the idea to me. I think he said there was a tool like that were the band seperated from the wrench so you could get it around whatever you're working on and then re-attaches.

If there is an actual name for a tool like that, I'm retarded and don't know.

-Chris

[J57ltr]

You can crack it with a screwdriver, better to use a brass drift or a wood block. I think the torque spec is around 175 Ft/Lb let set for 10 minutes and retorque.

Jeff

[David Neibert]

I believe you are talking about a strap wrench Johnny. I used a spanner wrench, but only once because it is such a pain to get it loose and retightened (148 ft. lbs.). It's much easier to remove the top and upper IC tube as a unit once it's tight and lined up.

David

[GooeyGus2]

yes why not just remove the whole top and everything?

[TbirdSCFan]

Remove the 4 bolts for the SC top and take off the upper tube and SC top as 1 piece. I've never had to remove the collar nut and I've taken the upper tub off at least 1/2 dozen times.;)

[KwikGSeX]

Originally posted by TbirdSCFan
Remove the 4 bolts for the SC top and take off the upper tube and SC top as 1 piece. I've never had to remove the collar nut and I've taken the upper tub off at least 1/2 dozen times.;)

I agree.. Otherwise the collar nut gets all banged and scratched up... Uhh u also need to undo the 2 bolts on the upper part of the IC also :D

[cudaz101]

WHatever route you take, it is not a bad idea to have the spanner wrench that you need to take it apart from the tube...Since the spanner wrench set only set me back 12bux from harbor freight it is not that big of a purchase really to have the right tools for the job if ya ever need them...The screwdriver and a hammer is not something I would recomend when the right tool is only $12...

Cheers

[Polecat Z]

Thanks guys for the replies. I got it off with screw driver and a hammer. I'm gonna get the spanner wrench to put it back together. I wanted to take it apart so I could make a raised top. You see, I'm a welder, aluminum specifically. So, making my own raised top was a breeze. I actually did it today. I raised it 3/4". It looks completely stock too(just taller:D ). I'm going to powdercoat it tommorrow. I have a metallic pewter color that is lighter than the stock grey. I'm going to do all of the pipes. It should brighten up under the hood. Later.