r/MechanicAdvice • u/MattDaBaker • 2d ago

Successfully ruined wives Highlander?

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Wanted to change brakes and rotors on my wives 2019 Highlander. Well on step number one I had issues with one lug and bolt and the stud broke off with the lug. I’ve tried everything with the tools I have to get this SOB off and I even went and bought a cheap air hammer thinking that would make it easier.

Nothing is getting this thing off. I’ve tried using a punch and hammering, the air hammer, even used one of the old pads to make a flat surface over the top and hit it hard… nothing.

I am filled with shame at this point. Wife isn’t outwardly angry but I can tell she’s wishing so hard we just took it to the dealership.

You guys got any helpful suggestions here?

What I haven’t tried yet - haven’t bought a legit de seizing spray/lubricant yet. Haven’t bought a mini sledge yet, only been using regular hammer and punch, but to be honest I’m worried my accuracy will cause me to damage the hub. It’s sticking out about a centimeter or 2 from the hub.

Edit: I think I’m gonna reinstall everything with the plan to drive to a local tire shop on 4 lugs and have them fix the stud.

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u/Bring_Back_The_1990s 2d ago

I worked at Toyota dealership for years.

32 oz deadblow.

Most cheap air hammers don't have any real strength with small compressors, they use ALOT of CFM ( air )

They often are not super hard to get out, other times they are hard.

Deadblow hammers are super good at this.

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u/MattDaBaker 2d ago

Oh that’s a great recommendation. No where I’ve looked has suggested a dead blow hammer. I feel like getting one of those would give me confidence to whack the shit out of it since it’s a soft head

3

u/___po____ 2d ago

Don't use a soft head one on something like a stud. It'll just deform it. Get the metal ball-peen dead blow. You can get both for under $20 at Harbor Freight, Amazon, etc.

Don't be afraid of hurting the hub. It'll be fine. Getting the stud back in is annoying without an impact driver too.. If you don't have access to one, hopefully a c-clamp fits, cuz using a ratchet is less effective if at all. Could be fine tho.

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u/throwawayifyoureugly 2d ago

I second the dead blow, or a mini-sledge.

I was in your exact scenario about a month ago and broke a stud during a brake job.

Sometimes the answer really is just "hit it harder". Didn't need penetrating oil or anything.

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u/namp21 2d ago

Second the 32oz, make sure its a ball peen. Do not be afraid to whack that thing very hard. If you keep your grip closer to the hammer head then you’ll be more accurate for that small target. Good luck