I have a 2001 Jeep TJ that I am currently working on. I am replacing the front and rear bump stop cups (that the rubber bump stops fit into), which are bolted to the spring tower.

My problem is that the bolt that is used to mount them is rusted, so I cannot get a socket onto it to remove it. My question is, is the mount threaded, or is there a captured nut in the spring mount? I can take a saw and cut the bolt (in between the cup and the mount) but that will only leave a couple of millimeters of bolt to try to grab with some vice grips to try to remove the left over bolt. I am not too keen on trying to drill the bolt out, as that could take a good long while.

Are you saying that you physically can't get the socket to fit the bolt due to excessive rust, or that it will fit you just can't turn it because it's rusted? I'm assuming the latter, but it read weird. In the case that you can't turn it, spray a bunch of good lubricating penetrant on it and let it sit for many hours (overnight is preferable), then use a breaker bar with an additional 3-4 foot cheater pipe on the end of the breaker bar. If it doesn't budge, heat the bolt with a MAP torch until it starts to get red, let it cool just a bit (30 seconds) and do the same with the breaker and cheater. Go to a 6 foot cheater if necessary. Cutting a bolt like that is typically 50/50 on whether it helps you or makes your life more difficult.

*Disclaimer- I don't know anything about the Jeep

This is not meant to be derail, but is the bump stop important? mine have all disintegrated.

Update- got the cups off, had to go and buy a set of sockets that are just for removing rusted bolt heads or nuts. Surprisingly, they were not rusted tight, and came off with just a little effort on the breaker bar.

More info on special sockets please????