Front Subframe: Service and Repair

Frame Replacement

Tools Required

J 39580 Universal Engine Support Table

Removal Procedure

1. Install the engine support fixture.
2. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Vehicle Lifting.




3. Remove the fasteners retaining the rack and pinion at the left side of the vehicle.
4. Remove the front tires and wheels.
5. Remove the engine splash shield.
6. Separate the ball joints from the steering knuckle. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement in Front Suspension.
7. Remove the front air deflector.




8. Remove the brackets (2) securing the power steering lines at the engine frame by lifting the push pin (1).
9. Remove the brackets securing the transmissions cooler lines to the engine frame.
10. Remove the fasteners securing the rack and pinion at the right side of the vehicle.
11. Support the rack and pinion with a wire to the body.
12. Remove the fastener securing the front transmission mount to the frame.




13. Remove the fasteners securing the rear transmission mount to the frame.




14. Support the engine frame near the frame insulators using J 39580 or suitable jackstands.




15. Remove the engine frame insulator fasteners (3) securing the engine frame (2) to the vehicle.
16. Lower the engine frame (2) from the vehicle.




17. Separate the engine frame insulators from the engine frame. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement.
18. If the engine frame is to be replaced, remove the lower control arms.

Installation Procedure

1. Install the lower control arms.




2. Assemble the engine frame insulators to the engine frame. Refer to Frame Cushion or Insulator Replacement.




3. Using 16 mm (0.630 in) dowel pins in the alignment holes (1), align the engine frame (2) with the body.

Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in Service Precautions.

4. Install the engine frame insulator fasteners (3) to secure the engine frame (2) to the vehicle.

Tighten the fasteners to 191 N.m (141 lb ft).




5. Remove the jack stands supporting the engine frame.




6. Install the nuts to secure the rear transmission mount to the bracket.
7. Install the fastener in order to secure the front transmission mount to the frame.




8. Install the fasteners in order to secure the rack and pinion to the engine frame.
9. Install the brackets in order to secure the transmission cooler lines to the engine frame.
10. Install the brackets in order to secure the power steering lines (1, 2) at the engine frame.
11. Install the front air deflector.
12. Install the ball joints to the steering knuckle.
13. Install the engine splash shield.
14. Install the front tires and wheels.
15. Remove the engine support fixture.
16. Lower the vehicle.
17. Test drive the vehicle in order to ensure there are no performance issues.