Front Subframe: Service and Repair
Subframe, replaceSpecial Tools
- CH-49289 Support frame fixture
- CH-904 Basic tool
For equivalent regional tools, refer to Special Tools
Removal Procedure
1. Disconnect the battery negative cable.
2. Remove the bolt (1) from the coupler and disconnect the steering shaft coupling from the steering gear.
3. Remove the left catalytic converter and pipe assembly.
4. On AWD vehicles, remove the propeller shaft.
5. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
6. Remove the front wheels.
7. Remove the radiator air lower deflector.
8. Remove the lower ball joint fastener (2).
9. Separate the lower ball joints from the steering knuckles (1).
10. Remove the electrical harness and the power steering cooler line from the clips in the frame.
11. Remove the front transmission mount through bolt (1).
12. Prepare the CH-904 Basic tool and the CH-49289 Support frame fixture according to the SPX instructions.
13. Install CH-49289 Support frame fixture (2) at the front suspension frame.
14. Remove the frame-to-body bolts.
15. Remove the rear transmission mount through bolt (1).
16. Carefully lower the suspension frame with the Hydraulic lifter
17. If replacing the frame, transfer components as necessary.
Installation Procedure
1. Carefully raise the frame until it contacts the vehicle.
2. Position the support frame using the guide pins.
3. Refer to Fastener Caution.
Install the 2 rear frame to body bolts and tighten to 100 Nm (74 lb ft) plus 90 degrees.
4. Install the 2 front frame to body bolts and tighten to 100 Nm (74 lb ft) plus 90 degrees.
5. Install the reinforcement bolts and tighten to 45 Nm (33 lb ft) plus 30 degrees.
6. Install the electrical harness and the power steering cooler line to the clips in the frame.
7. Connect the ball joint studs to the steering knuckles (1).
8. Install the ball joint fastener (2) to the ball joint and tighten to 30 Nm (22 lb ft) plus an additional 130 degrees.
9. Install the rear transmission mount through bolt (1) and tighten to 100 Nm (74 lb ft).
10. Install the front transmission mount through bolt (1) and nut. Tighten to 100 Nm (74 lb ft).
11. Remove the special tools.
12. On AWD vehicles, install the propeller shaft.
13. Install the left catalytic converter and pipe assembly.
14. Install the radiator air lower deflector.
15. Install the front wheels.
16. Lower the vehicle.
17. Check the wheel alignment.