norbury.brook Posted April 2, 2024 Share Posted April 2, 2024 Greetings, everyone. I am attempting to repair the corroded and unsightly fender liner bolts on my 2008 Audi R8. However, I am encountering difficulties in both removing the old bolts and properly fastening the new ones in their place. Is there a prescribed or particular method I should be using to do this task? Attempting to extract the corroded object, it continues to rotate. I am unable to fully insert the top bolt as it consistently fails to thread completely. Assistance would be much appreciated. Consistently the simple matters.... haha. There seems to be a fastener located between the painted body panel and the fender. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
KWILB Posted April 2, 2024 Share Posted April 2, 2024 I would remove the liner and inspect the bolt attachment locations. You may need to substitute some metallic fasteners on the liner to which the bolts are threaded. I suspect that the top bolt is not completely lined with the outermost edge of the clip. Exercise caution to avoid damaging the rivnuts that are affixed to the body while handling them. I have replaced the majority of the liner and under tray bolts with titanium ones, since the current OEM bolts are prone to rusting quickly. By the way, such bolts have a size of M6x20 mm with a T30 head. I have used black titanium bolts with a head width of 16 mm. These bolts can be acquired for around $3 per unit from online marketplaces such as eBay and Aliexpress. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rudy7831 Posted April 2, 2024 Share Posted April 2, 2024 I encountered the same problem. Usually, when a bolt spins without unscrewing, it indicates that the bolt has been stuck in the spire nut. If the distance between them and the target is sufficient, the optimal course of action would be to meticulously sever the head. If not, firmly grasp the head with a pair of locking pliers and use a sharp drill to bore through the middle till the head detaches. I purchased fresh spire nuts and applied copper grease to the new bolts being inserted. If the screw cannot be properly tightened, you should replace the spire nut or clean the threads of the rivnut using an M6 tap. Although not enjoyable, the task is well worthwhile 👍 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
norbury.brook Posted April 2, 2024 Author Share Posted April 2, 2024 Thank you for your suggestion. Do you think using penetrating oil from behind may be effective? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
rab60bit88 Posted April 2, 2024 Share Posted April 2, 2024 Applying oil may facilitate the removal process, but I have also successfully used nose pliers or a thin object placed under the bolt to exert pulling force while simultaneously loosening them with a drill. Wishing you success! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rudy7831 Posted April 2, 2024 Share Posted April 2, 2024 Undoubtedly, using penetrating oil is an optimal first step when seeking entry. Once the bolt starts rotating, it indicates that the spire nut has fractured, and regrettably, you will likely need to use a more forceful approach. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
QuirkyPixel Posted April 2, 2024 Share Posted April 2, 2024 Yesterday, I had a problem when attempting to remove my front bumper in order to install a new grill. However, I had to abandon the task since all of the screws beneath were heavily corroded with rust. I successfully loosened them, however subsequently, the rivet located behind started rotating together with the screw. I would want to circumvent the need for cutting through the liner, but I am uncertain whether there exists an alternative method to get access to the other end. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rudy7831 Posted April 2, 2024 Share Posted April 2, 2024 To remove the bolts, it may be necessary to either sever the heads or bore through them. Obtaining replacement spire nuts is rather simple. Fasteners that are secured within rivnuts often remain intact since the threading is shielded from external factors. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
MidnightMarauder Posted April 2, 2024 Share Posted April 2, 2024 I am experiencing the same issue. I had to use agricultural methods to deal with the severely corroded ones. Due to the deterioration of all four liners over time, I made the decision to replace them. Less costly than anticipated. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
QuirkyPixel Posted April 2, 2024 Share Posted April 2, 2024 Does anybody have the specific component numbers for the screws and metal rivets located below the front bumper? Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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