Datsun Roadster Forum-311s.org

I'm getting ready to install the brake brace to protect against firewall cracking on my 69 and I need to remove the stock lower bolt as the brace includes this. I tried turning the head from the inside to no avail. I think I have to rap it hard with a hammer on the engine side to drive it out, but given the concern was the flimsiness of the brake pocket metal I was reluctant to do that w/o checking with others that have done the install (I didn't have any instructions w/mine and have not been able to find w/search). How did others remove that stock bolt?

I'm pretty sure the bolt is knurled. You will probably need to tap it out from the engine bay. Maybe use a wood dowel and hammer?

Only semi-joking, this is the precautionary firewall panel brace/reinforcement that’s not needed until you crack the firewall panel trying to get the MC out to install it…

Put the nut on the bolt you are trying to get out, it will give you a good grip point for your drift punch and hit it. On all the firewalls there is a second piece of metal that is the part inside the firewall that is always intact and is extremely unlikely to break. So just strike the bolt with the nut a few turns on and it will pop out inside, the nut just helps to keep the punch from glancing off.
Dave

david premo wrote: Sun Mar 23, 2025 10:11 am Put the nut on the bolt you are trying to get out, it will give you a good grip point for your drift punch and hit it. On all the firewalls there is a second piece of metal that is the part inside the firewall that is always intact and is extremely unlikely to break. So just strike the bolt with the nut a few turns on and it will pop out inside, the nut just helps to keep the punch from glancing off.
Dave

Hit once, hit twice and then out. Thanks.