Chevy & GMC Vans

Here is the problem. I loosened the nut attaching the idler and popped it loose, but now I can't get the nut the rest of the way off. The stud keeps spinning. Nor can I tighten it, same problem. I have tried to get it to seated again so I could loosen it all the way, but no success so far. Any suggestions?

Big channel locks and squeeze, tighten the nut back down. Remove nut completely, then separate.

I tried that. The nut will not tighten or loosen. Of course I needed to get this done tonight. I suspect that is why it went wrong. If I had days and days, it would have been done in a few hours.

A friend of mine suggested using my impact wrench. That got it moving, but I couldn't get the bolts out of the frame, so I soaked them in release-all and will see another day.

While I was under there I need an alignment as there is some pretty nasty wear on the inside of the front tires.

When you brake them loose, Make Sure that you Always fit Moog replacements, Because Anything else is just a cheap replacement that will Not last.

Yes, they are Moog. I purchased them last fall and then being busy and health issues kept me from getting them on. Now the weather it better. My health is better, and I figure it is time to get them on.

The frame bolts on that same Idler arm are quite rusty. I have been soaking them in Release-All, but they still don't want to budge.

Edit:

Time and penetrating oil did it, alone with the pipe from my floor jack over the breaker bar I was using. I got it to budge a little, then the impact wrench got it turning. I took it out about a 1/4 inch and hit the threads with penetrating oil as it was still very tight (I could only move it with the breaker bar not the ratchet) I will give it a bit of time, then take them the rest of the way out.

Got it done. Man, that idler was worn. I wonder if the other one was replaced while this one was left on, it certainly was much more rusted and nasty looking when I pulled it. Now to the other things on my list, but first an alignment.

I'm just tackling this job, what size bolt is on there.? I tried 17mm & 19mm, then 11/16 & 3/4.

Nothing fits!?

18mm I believe..