A140 front subframe

[steve.o]

Hi
the A class i just bought had a advisory from last m.o.t
front subframe heavily corroded ,is this a common fault? looking at it
it reminds me of the old rusty mini subframes that used to rust through"
IF i need to replace at next mot is it straight forward job? its not a engine out job is it?thanks
steve.

 

[Dieselman]

It's the other way round. To remove the engine is a subframe out job. If you support the engine by other means the subframe can be dropped away.

 

[npuk]

There might be a guide on how to change it at Albert Rowe, Lofty's homepage

 

[wheels-inmotion]

The rust is cosmetic, i think the tester is being a bit of an a*s*.

 

[steve.o]

Thanks
steve.

 

[FlySpeck]

Hi guys, my subframe is rotten with rust and pothole damage, badly welded by a previous owner and the right control arm is knackered but the bolt has no star lugs left so the best option is to swap the subframe over for a new one I have, and 2 new arms....is there a write up on where and how to support the engine diy style to drop the subframe and change it without lowering the engine?

I wonder can the engine mounts be unbolted from the subframe so it can stay put using a support / jack etc and the subbie dropped out in the driveway?

any help most welcome, its becoming jarring to drive with a badly worn arm and since the wishbone's lateral bush bolt is almost headless i really really need to change the subframe to fit the new arms.

 

[npuk]

Try searching Albert Rowe, Lofty's homepage

 

[FlySpeck]

no use mate, I have the cd already etc but he doesnt go into any detail on subframe removal at all except a brief mention of it when removing the engine.

I know how it comes off, only 8 bolts and 2 arms at the rear but I need someone who has actually dropped the subframe down without disturbing the engine with a diy method of supporting the engine in the correct places for it not to move or topple when the subframe is released from the car and engine.

No disrespect to bert (lofty) but while there is a ton of great info on there, it doesnt cover this job in itself and lots of other jobs are basic maintenance and fixes without going into detail on certain areas. Its more things to watch out for, fault solutions and general diy rather than something like this.


Dieselman you seem to have a method, would you expand on how you supported the engine? The pic above is interesting but doesnt show the support that is actually holding the engine up.