Gear rod error...

[Corsair613]

It seems as though every project has an error on it somewhere (every project of mine, anyway) and, apparently, the GTR is not going to be the exception.

Months ago, when first laying out the gear rod components for my G50 center shift configuration, I noticed that the short front section fit into the main rod (the one that fits between the seats) and I rapped it into place with a mallet. Idiot! It needs to come out in order to fit the main rod in place and then be inserted from the front through the rose joint. Unfortunately, it's well and truly in there and I can't get it out.

I've tried freezing the short front section, securing it in the vise, and trying to knock the main rod off it. No luck. The next step would seem to be applying heat to the main rod, perhaps in combination with freezing the front section, but putting a torch on the rod might affect its heat treatment and will certainly discolor it.

Any other ideas short of ordering a few replacements parts?

Ken

[Storer]

Ken

How about plenty of WD40 and a bit of time followed by the use of the vice and a stilson wrench (pipe wrench) to twist it backwards and forwards to free it.

This will leave marks unfortunately, but I suspect any route you take will cause some damage.


Paul

BTW. If this is your only mistake then you are a very clever man!

[Storer]

Ken

Did you manage to separate the parts?


Paul

[Corsair613]

Hi Paul,

Thanks for the good suggestion. I was thinking about some sort of penetrating oil, but WD-40 should do nicely.

I was busy this morning (OK, I was golfing…), but I'll give it a try tonight.

Ken