1967 Front Emblem Removal

[paul67]

I bought a new front emblem at Carlisle last August and wish to install it. I am using a small ratchet, extension and socket; coming up from below to grab the speed nuts. I believe the nuts are 5/16" but I have tried a number of sizes and simply cannot get those darn nuts to turn. I seem to get a "bite" on them but they will not move. Am I missing something? Is there a trick to this seemingly easy job?

 

[67HEAVEN]

No trick, Paul. If you have to, force them. Maybe the prongs will break off. That's assuming that you don't have plans for the old one.

Is it possible that your socket is a bit too short? Try a deep socket.

 

[paul67]

I am using a deep socket owing to the length of the posts. I have no plans to keep the old so I may have to get more aggressive.

 

[JohnZ]

If the posts on the emblem have chrome on them, remove it with a file, or the nuts won't "grab" to get started (the chrome is harder than the thread-cutting part of the nut). Then install the nuts on the studs on the bench to establish cut threads before you install the emblem on the car, and it'll go together with no problem.

 

[paul67]

The speed nuts are 5/16". I got it off with some persuasion, mainly applying pressure on the upper surface with thin cardboard/screwdriver while doing the socket work below. The repro emblem legs did not fit in the holes so I bent them. The emblem snapped in half. So the old emblem goes back in. Just ordered a new one from Paragon. Can anyone spell s.t.u.p.i.d m.o.v.e? I feel like a twit this evening....

 

[67HEAVEN]

Can anyone spell s.t.u.p.i.d m.o.v.e? I feel like a twit this evening....

What makes you think you're the only one to make occasional mistakes?

 

[paul67]

That was my first one of this driving season. And relatively inexpensive. More to come if the past is an indicator. The last few years I have had some bad luck with repro parts: poor quality and some simply did not fit. You really have to cross your fingers when you order these days.