I am trying to remove the front clip on my '69 Cutlass wagon, the lower fender to cowl bolts are spinning freely, it seems the sheet metal "nut" has broken loose, what is the best way to remove them?

 

The ONLY way to remove them is to cut the heads off, unfortunately. This is a common problem. I use a cutoff wheel in my 4 1/2" Dewalt grinder. Use LOTS of anti-seize when you reassemble with new J-nuts.

 

I suspected as much, thanks for verifying it!

 

Got those off, now trying to remove the front clip and having an issue. I found these instructions:

disconnect wiring. I do it at the fuse block junction.
disconnect radiator
If you have a/c there is a couple hoses to condenser, also hose to compressor is clamped on passenger fender.
disconnect windshield washer hoses
remove battery and disconnect ground strap from passenger fender.
2 bolts holding fender to door jamb
4 bolts fender to cowl
4 bottom fender to cowl bolts
4 wheel well to cowl bolts
2 core support bolts


I have found and disconnected all bolts except the 4 wheel well to cowl bolts, where are they?

 

Finally got the from clip off!

 

makin good progress.