replacement of heater flaps HELP

[OysterSlayer]

Hello, I'm new to this group and I am trying to replace a broken heater flap on my 70 280sl. I purchased a new flap but can't get the bracket loose to install the new flap. You can see the bracket and what looks like a nut in the photo but It isn't. How do I loosen this bracket to install the new valve or am I going about it the wrong way?

[Sead]

Hello, I'm new to this group and I am trying to replace a broken heater flap on my 70 280sl. I purchased a new flap but can't get the bracket loose to install the new flap. You can see the bracket and what looks like a nut in the photo but It isn't. How do I loosen this bracket to install the new valve or am I going about it the wrong way?

See photo:

[getsmart]

Sead the top nut is welded onto the bracket, you can only turn the bolt from underneath. I suggest put some lubricant on it from above and leave it a while then try to remove the nut from underneath. Its a tight fit but doable.

Rgds, Joe

[OysterSlayer]

Thanks for your reply. I tried penetrating lubricant and heat but in the end had to carefully grind it off.

[getsmart]

no probs - the grinder wins in the end