Rear Subframe: Service and Repair

REAR SUBFRAME

Part 1:

Part 2:

Removal and Installation

WARNING:
- Use of any other than approved DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid may cause permanent damage to brake components and may render the brakes inoperative. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.
- Brake fluid contains polyglycol ethers and polyglycols. Avoid contact with eyes. Wash hands thoroughly after handling. If brake fluid contacts eyes, flush eyes with running water for 15 minutes. Get medical attention if irritation persists. If taken internally, drink water and induce vomiting. Get medical attention immediately. Failure to follow these instructions may result in personal injury.

CAUTION:
- Brake fluid is harmful to painted and plastic surfaces. If brake fluid is spilled onto a painted or plastic surface, immediately wash it off with water.
- Do not allow the brake master cylinder reservoir to run dry during the bleeding operation. Keep the brake master cylinder reservoir filled with the specified brake fluid. Never reuse the brake fluid that has been drained from the hydraulic system.

1. With the vehicle in NEUTRAL, position it on a hoist.
2. Drain the fuel from the fuel tank.

3. NOTE: If a new rear subframe is to be installed, the differential and halfshafts must be removed prior to removal of the rear subframe. For all other procedures, the differential, halfshafts and rear subframe are to be removed as an assembly.

If installing a new subframe, remove the rear axle differential case.

4. Remove the drive shaft.
5. Remove the rear wheel and tire assemblies.
6. Disconnect the ABS sensor connectors (1 per side).
7. Disconnect the electric parking brake connectors (1 per side).

8. NOTE:
- Make sure to cap off all fluid lines and hoses.
- After the subframe is installed, bleed the brake system.

Remove the 2 rear brake line fittings (1 per side).
- To install, tighten to 20 Nm (15 lb-ft).

9. Remove the 2 rear brake line bracket bolts.
- To install, tighten to 20 Nm (15 lb-ft).

10. Remove the 2 rear strut bolts (1 per side).
- To install, tighten to 133 Nm (98 lb-ft).

11. NOTE: Make sure to cap off all fluid lines and hoses.

Remove the hose clamp from the fuel filler hose.

12. CAUTION: Prior to the removal of the fuel filler hose, care must be taken to avoid spillage of any residual fuel.

Remove the fuel filler hose from the fuel tank.

13. NOTE: Paint or mark the position of the subframe to the body for assembly reference.

Remove the 4 rear subframe bolts (2 per side).
- To install, tighten to 103 Nm (76 lb-ft).

14. Remove the ABS sensor electrical cable locator.

15. CAUTION: Make sure to not damage the fuel tank when lowering or raising the subframe assembly.

NOTE:
- If installing a new subframe, transfer the park brake assembly.
- If installing a new subframe and bushings assembly, center the subframe on the body mounts.
- If installing a new subframe and bushings assembly, transfer all the suspension components and perform a rear wheel alignment.

Remove the subframe and bushings assembly.

16. To install, reverse the removal procedure.