Locking nut removal - hammered a socket onto spinning collar

Question

I have a Vauxhall Astra UK model, not sure they are in the US but don't think that matters... I needed to replace a brake caliper as it was seized.

Long story short:

My locking nut broke, the bit in the middle cracked and came out.
I hammered a socket over the locking nut
It span for ages, didn't come out
Realised that the outer collar on the locking nut rotates...

Now I can't get the socket that I hammered on off the locking nut

I'd really love some advice on what my next move should be that doesn't involve alcohol.

Thanks!

Nick C · Answer

Leverage is the key here. I'd suggest getting a long extension (preferably an old one you don't mind breaking). stick that into the socket, then use a club hammer in a sequential motion - up, down, left, right etc (or rotate the socket alternately 180 and 90 degrees to get the same effect). That should eventually loosen the socket enough to get it off (unless you did really, really well at hammering it on in the first place!)

Then follow @Paulster2's comment to get the remains of the nut off.

Chris · Answer

If you have a nail with large flat head, but not so large to enter the hole where the impact goes, then hammer into 2x4 and insert the nail head in the socket hole. Get the nail head lodged on the lip where the nut you unscrew goes. Then lever it off, or tap it.

Answered by Chris on September 20, 2020

Solar Mike · Answer

I would weld an old extension bar into the socket then prise it off that way.

Then drill off the collar and then drill out the nut. Protect the wheel while drilling and also don't damage the stud.

I would source replacement wheel nuts of the non-locking variety...

Locking nut removal - hammered a socket onto spinning collar

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