Gilly,

Yes it is a strap. I've removed it. The photo below is taken looking up at where the strap was. Do I pound on that gold looking tube that surrounds the hex part of the torsion bar in order to pound it out? If so do I pound the gold colored tube towards the front of the vehicle or the rear?



Edited: Much to my suprise and amazement I got both flange bolts off, very easily, with the sqare nuts not moving at all. I did put penatrating oil on yesterday but I think I just got lucky.