How do you remove the backing plate from the Rupes Bigfoot 21?

[Calendyr]

I have been struggling with the Rupes 21 for 20 minutes and I can't get the bolt to move. The problem is that the plate is free rotating so I can't find a way to apply enough torque to the bolt. I tried using a lever on the Alan Key but then I can't manage to get the plate from spinning. Is there a way to lock the plate so it won't spin? Otherwise does anyone have a trick to do this? I must have applied 50-60 pounds of torque and it just won't budge.

Oh I am trying to make it move counterclockwise like I have seen in 2 or 3 rupes washer mod videos, so it's not a matter of me applying pressure in the wrong direction.

[Calendyr]

I just tried with an electric drill with an alan key bit... besides almost ripping my wrist off, still no go.

[swanicyouth]

I haven't even used mine yet, no less tried to remove the BP.

But, I would grab my long breaker bar.



Its served me well for hard to remove bolts. $20 from Harbor Freight. You may need a 1/2" to 3/8" adapter for your socket.

[Calendyr]

Ya the problem is that with a longer handle like this one, you get more torque but since the bp is free spinning it is harder to keep it from moving, so you can't really use the extra torque. There has to be a way to prevent it from spinning without damaging it.

[Mike Phillips]

You hold the backing plate firmly with one hand and use the included allen or hex head wrench with your other hand.

I will say the hex head bolts that tighten the backing plates onto the spindle are incredibly tight and it does take some muscle to break them free.

Remember to tighten down very snuggly also as there is a reason they come from the factory this tight.

[FUNX650]

From this thread: http://www.autogeekonline.net/forum/...late-bolt.html
One of my favorite methods:

I had to channel the power of Thor to get mine out.

Bob

[swanicyouth]

Ya the problem is that with a longer handle like this one, you get more torque but since the bp is free spinning it is harder to keep it from moving, so you can't really use the extra torque. There has to be a way to prevent it from spinning without damaging it.

The Allen bolt spins independently of the BP?

[Calendyr]

If you don't hold the plate, when you turn the bolt with the allen key the plate will rotate with it. I will give it an other try today, I was concerned about breaking something but it seems I am not the only one with that problem. I think I will contact Miley Cyrus and ask her to bring her sledgehammer over

[swanicyouth]

I haven't taken my Rupes apart yet, but from what it sounds like, leverage would solve your problem.

Try getting another person to hold the BP, while you loosen it with a breaker bar. Or, if you don't have a breaker bar, slip the closed side of a big wrench over your Allen key to make it longer.

If that doesn't work, there's always the torch

[Evan.J]

Those bolts are in there tight! I had this issues but I was able to get it out with the key on the machine.