Front Subframe: Service and Repair

FRAME REMOVAL AND INSTALLATION

Tools Required: J 39580 Universal Engine Support Table

Removal Procedure

1. Disconnect the negative battery cable.
2. Remove the air cleaner assembly.
3. Install the engine support Fixture.
4. Raise and support the vehicle.
5. Remove the front tires and wheels.
6. Remove the steering gear mounting bolts.





7. Use a strap in order to secure the power steering gear.
8. Remove the engine mount to frame nuts.
9. Remove the transaxle mount to frame nuts.
10. Remove the power steering cooler pipe from the frame.
11. Use utility wire to secure the power steering cooler.





12. Disconnect the front wheel speed sensor connectors (1).
13. Remove the front wheel speed harness retainers from the frame and the lower control arms (2).
14. Separate both of the lower ball joints from the steering knuckle.





15. Lower the vehicle until the frame contacts the J 39580.
16. Remove and DISCARD all frame-to-body bolts.
17. Raise the vehicle in order to separate the frame from the body.





18. If you are replacing the frame, remove the following components:
^ The spacers, the upper insulators, the lower insulators, and the retainers.
^ Both of the lower control arms.
^ The stabilizer shaft.

Installation Procedure





1. If previously removed, install the following components:

Important: Ensure that the insulators are completely seated against the frame.

^ The spacers, the upper insulators, the lower insulators, and the retainers.
^ Both of the lower control arms.
^ The stabilizer shaft.





2. Position the engine support table with the frame under the vehicle.
3. Lower the vehicle to the frame.
4. Align the frame to the body by inserting two 19 X 203 mm (0.74 X 8.0 in) pins in the alignment holes on the right side of the frame.

Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

5. Install the NEW frame-to-body bolts.

Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 180 Nm (133 lb ft).

6. Install the engine mount nuts.
7. Install the transaxle mount nuts.
8. Connect the lower ball joints to the steering knuckle.
9. Install the steering gear mounting bolts.
10. Install the power steering cooler pipe to the frame.





11. Connect the front wheel speed sensor connectors (1).
12. Install the front wheel speed harness retainers from the frame and the lower control arms (2).
13. Remove the universal support table.
14. Install the front tires and wheels.
15. Lower the vehicle.
16. Remove the engine support fixture.
17. Connect the negative battery cable.
18. Install the air cleaner assembly.
19. Inspect the front wheel alignment and adjust if needed.