Every task sounds so simple and then I dive in to it and encounter difficulties!
Problem: Whilst loosening the 1/2" nut on the stud holding the dipstick tube to re freshen grounds there, the stud, nut and ground connectors all want to remain as one (they turn together). The stud has what looks like 8 pointed Torx style situation on the end before the threads start.

What kind of special tool do I need to hold the stud while I attempt to loosen up the rest?

Awful picture attached vaguely showing the 8 pointed end of the stud. (Correction 6 pointed)

 

Might need a female torx along with a wrench, then. Looks like a 6 point torx. Whichever it is, hold the stud, loosen the nut.

 

That figures! I've never had a reason to use a female torx wrench (I have more male torx than I ever use). Problem will be finding one around here.
I looked closer and you're right, it's a 6 pointed male Torx maybe size T35. My bad.
Thanks

 

I might be able to get a female torx socket and I'm guessing it's size T35. But, what still confuses me is the fact that the whole enchilada is handy and the wire connectors remain glued to the nut and/or stud. Are they mechanically attached by another nut on the bottom or are they fused together due to the electrical problems I've had involving grounds lately? Can I pry the connectors off the nut to loosen them? (I've tried prying but they seem fused together)

 

You can use a box wrench. I forget what size.

When you find out, post it up and I'll update my website with that info.

 

I dont know what size fits a T35 off hand, but a 5mm socket fits a T30.

 

There's an American socket also. I'll have to find out.

 

This is unconfirmed.
I've been told by normally reliable source a 7mm box end will grip that 35mm torx.
As last resort, last resort, a vice grip. It will probably damage the torx stud end.
When apart, brake clean stud and hole, apply some blue/medium strength loctite, install stud, let cure, reassemble clean grounds leads.

 

Good way to put it back together.

Now that I'v walked out across the yard to the garage in freezing weather, in flip flops, I can confirm.

7/32 six point socket or box wrench works fine. 5mm would have to be hammered on.

The tip on my website has been updated to reflect this.

 

I'm thinking mine has been grabbed before by pliers or vice grips. My 7/32 inch hex socket is too sloppy and the next size down, 3/16 won't go on. If I wanted the right size socket between those two I would need a 5mm I believe. But, of course, I don't have one.
I believe that the correct tool for this application might be called a star socket. 5mm star socket.
Anyway, I'm just going to cut the wires close to the connectors at the stud and get the stud and nut out where I can work on it better. I see now that there is a round ledge on the stud that bottoms out at the dipstick tube mount when you screw it in, then the wire connectors and nut go on and in my case the nut is tighter than the stud was tightened. Probably because the mechanic who did it didn't have the right tool either!
Thanks for the tips.

 

These are the correct type sockets, and few folks have them.

https://www.amazon.com/Lisle-26280-T.../dp/B0002NYBVO

 

Yes, those are the sockets for your nice to have section of the tool box.
Decent pricing, watch for sales.
7/32" and flip flops. Lol. Sometimes the questions just beg for an answer and you gotta do it.
Gotta love those winter flip flops.
Last time I was out in the snow in the flops; was to rescue a poor helpless cute furry little animal caught up in the fence.
Then I was chased back across the yard by an angry muskrat.
Being well motivated I did outrun him but nearly broke my legs slipping and sliding my way up the stairs.
No good deed goes unpunished.
Keep well grounded my friends!

 

I hate flip flops, sandles etc. I always feel vulnerable in many ways. One of those ways is the inability to move quickly if necessary.

I got these for a very reasonable price. Super comfy, don't cut into your foot between the toes, and I can run!!

https://telic.com/

 

im curious about those wires? funny way to connect them? what are they??

 

DLC ground (G102).