Need Advice on Removing 2 E12 Bolts

[capejeep99]

I'm having a rough time removing the driver's side E12 bolt on top of trans. Haven't yet tried the passenger's side. I'm using a variety of extensions to get up to the trunk area and using an extension on the racket handle for leverage. Twice I thought I had it crack the bond only to realize the socket probably just slipped off the Torx head. I thought of maybe heating the bolt heads up but there's a lot of oil in the area (due to leaks) so don't want to start a fire. Any suggestions on getting those 2 bolts out? I had heard this is really a PIA but just wasn't expecting it to be such a PIA. Thanks a lot for any suggestions.

 

[Unclewolverine]

Lower the back of the trans as low as you can so you can get as straight of a shot as you can. I have always got them off by hammering a 3/8 6 point on there and just a couple long extensions, my 3/8ths drive impact wobble, and my long handle ratchet.

 

[capejeep99]

Thanks for your reply/help. So even though it's a Torx head bolt, you hammered on a hex socket? That seems interesting. you used an impact driver? I can try that. I was a little hesitant to use that tool, but can try that. I just don't want to mess up the bolt head. I suppose as a last result I can try and weld a socket onto the bolt head.

 

[jhenke]

If pulling the engine, chain the engine up, remove the engine mounts, and then lower the engine, this will allow extra room to remove the e12 bolts from the topside.
I have used a 10mm box wrench to loosen the e12 bolt. Harbor Freight sells an e-torx set for cheap.