Question on removing the lower bolt on the Elka rear shock

[Culpjp]

I have a 2008 GS with an Elka rear shock. I'm trying to remove the rear tire using the technique that Lamonster uses, by removing the lower bolt from the rear shock. I'm having a hard time getting the bolt out. I've removed the nut and jacked up the whole bike so that the rear tire is just touching the ground. The bolt should just slide out, but it seems to be binding like it is under pressure from the shock or the bolt has been bent slightly. The bolt will turn, but doesn't want to slide out. Is there something that you have to do different with the Elka shocks? Any help would be appreciated.

[garb55]

There is nothing different with the Elka shock
did you try to remove the wheel and leave the shock hooked up
I did that on my 2008 GS
if you need to remove the shock you will have to hammer it out
You can buy a new one at Lowes or Home Depot
Just make sure the new bolt is the same grade or higher
Don

[IGETAROUND]

No trick,you just have to raise the rear wheel off the ground; then very gently and slowly while lowering and you're trying to turn the bolt. All of a sudden it will become perfectly balanced and will come out quite easily; unless the bolt has been bent. This is difficult to describe. I also found it easier to find the sweet spot while raising rather than lowering. Hope this helps.

Al in Kazoo

[ssmcclub]

Do what Igetaround said I did it and it worked

[Culpjp]

I used igetaround's technique to get the bolt loose enough that I can turn it easily by hand. That also makes the shock move enough to tell me the bolt is bent also. So I'm going to have to hammer it out it looks like, or cut it with a reciprocating saw.

[Varminter]

I know this is an old thread but here's a better answer. With the rear jacked up the bottom bolt should be somewhat movable, to get it lose place a car scissor jack between the rear tire and under the seat. There is a block of aluminium with a bolt through it (2010 RS) that you can place the top of the jack against. With hand tightening you can get the excess pressure off the shock. Job done.