front strut removal help!!

[ThE1gOg]

hi

fitting ap coilovers to my passat b6 family wagon, i did try not to do anything to it but it only lasted 6 months

anyway, it has the sway bar and pinch bolt setup like on the mk4 golf.

i'm having an absolute nightmare getting the old front struts off, taken me 4 hrs to do 1 side. i still have the passnger side to do tomorrow and i'm keen for any tips as i can't be arsed with it taqking so long again

i have this strut spreading tool http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Laser-3396-st ... 25827a6b4b i'm inserting it in the gap as per a few youtube vids i've watched. it is spreading the strut but it is also cutting in to the strut casting, which is making it less effective. making it an absolute piita to get out.

are there any other tips for easy removal fitment of the strut into the hub casting??

the 2 pinch bolt design was alot easier!!!