I’ve just changed out my front struts but can’t for the life of me get the ‘high performance brakes damper’ off the the top of the old struts.

It’s simply screwed on but the loctite is causing the whole assembly to turn so it won’t unscrew. I’ve cut the bags open to see if I can grip anything to stop the ‘cup’ from turning but couldn’t see anything obvious.

Anyone else had this issue. Any pointers appreciated.

Also, I’m not really sure what the dampers do, so if anyone can enlighten me that would be great.

And lastly, is it safe to drive without the dampers?

I would be using a Stilson wrench to grip it. In general terms I’ve rarely failed with undoing things like that when using one. It will leave tooth marks but that’s acceptable sometimes. V8 or else ...

Stilsons won't fit unfortunately

And my mole grips can't bite into it. 2007 3.6 TDV8

I had exactly the same problem. As I was not going to use the strut anymore I cut into the metal (of the strut not the damper) just enough to crack the thread slightly, then it came off.

Kezbo, that sounds like a plan.

Can you give me a bit more detail, please.

You mean you cut into the silver bit below the black bit? 2007 3.6 TDV8

That's right. I did it sort of diagonally with an angle grinder. You need to do it carefully as you could damage the treads on the actual damper. You just need to cut it just enough so it will crack, a blow from a coal chisel usually helps once you have made a reasonable cut.

Maaaaate, I'll give that a go.

Any idea what's it for and will the sky fall in if I drive without them.

Googleski calls them an 'insulator' 2007 3.6 TDV8

Think they stop some vibration or resinence, but not 100% sure. I drove for about a week without them and didn't notice a difference, i dont think early models have them. But on your head be it!

Ok thanks kesbo.

I’ll try the grinder route and see how I go 2007 3.6 TDV8