[frazierfrazier]

Seen a few threads on changing the front subframe bushings, but not many details on removing the subframe, or how to support the engine while it's out. Not enough to make me feel comfortable doing it yet, anyway.

My subframe needs to be removed so I can blast it and paint it. It's got some rust issues that need addressing. Maybe a thread exists and I'm just overlooking it?

 

[RaceDiagnostics]

Here is how I did it.

First I had to modify my engine support so the bar sat above the engine.

The support legs needed to be positioned here.

I needed to extend as per below. I used some 1/4 inch steel plate.

So I supported the engine like this.

Next job was brake pads out and calipers off, then remove the anti roll bar drop links and separate the track rod end ball joints.

Next support the subframe from below and remove the engine mount bolts after the manifold heat shield has been removed.....on some cars the bolts come through from below rather than from above.

Then the shock top nuts.

Next I tightened up the engine support bar chains just so I could see the smallest of movements. I decided to put the chains round the manifold in the end.

I then removed all four subframe bolts.

Next the anti roll bar.

I then started to lower the subframe.

Let the cleanup begin!

 

[frazierfrazier]

Wow! Certainly got what I asked for. This is definitely one for the sticky, imo.

 

[Fonzi]

Race Diagnostics is certainly an outstanding contributor IMO. Thank you!!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[wvcaudill]

Are the pictures to this thread still available?

 

[RaceDiagnostics]

My website is being updated next week to include an SSL, this will fix the issue with the pictures not showing up, meanwhile I have a PDF of the entire process here.

https://www.benzworld.org/forums/r-c107-sl-slc-class/2991051-dropping-rear-sub-frame-1979-450sl.html

 

[RaceDiagnostics]

Oops, just realised that this was a front subframe thread, anyway the pics should be visible sometime early next week.

Alternatively if you access the site on your phone the pics may show up, they do on mine.

 

[RaceDiagnostics]

Missing picture issue now solved.

 

[wvcaudill]

Thanks, I just got the subframe dropped this morning and the pictures really helped. It was still a tough job for a one-man shop! Everything looks good, but is there anything specific I should be looking to replace while the subframe is out - other than my leaking oil pan gasket? Thanks.

 

[okyoureabeast]

I would replace coil springs, shocks, rubbery bits, and any subframe bracket welding that needs done on pre 1985 cars.

 

[wvcaudill]

The bracket welding was done several years ago under the recall. Shocks were also replaced previously. Why would I replace the coil springs? The car has been garage kept and only has 50,000 miles. And, do you replace all the rubber just because it might be 40 years old? Or, is there some criteria? I will inspect it all closely for wear and tear.

 

[RaceDiagnostics]

I kept the springs, upper arm bushes, engine mounts, and subframe mounts as they were in good condition.

I changed the ball joints, lower arm bushes, wheel bearings, shocks, brake discs, anti roll bar mounts and drop links and got the calipers refurbed. Everything was sand blasted then primed with epoxy and topcoated with 2k black.

 

[Jyuma]

I kept the springs, upper arm bushes, engine mounts, and subframe mounts as they were in good condition.

I changed the ball joints, lower arm bushes, wheel bearings, shocks, brake discs, anti roll bar mounts and drop links and got the calipers refurbed. Everything was sand blasted then primed with epoxy and topcoated with 2k black.

My eyes widen and the hair stands up on the back of my neck every time I see this photo. I'm tempted to frame it and hang it on the wall of my garage.

An absolute a work of art. :thumbsup:

 

[Eriken]

Here is how I did it.

First I had to modify my engine support so the bar sat above the engine.

The support legs needed to be positioned here.

I needed to extend as per below. I used some 1/4 inch steel plate.

So I supported the engine like this.

Next job was brake pads out and calipers off, then remove the anti roll bar drop links and separate the track rod end ball joints.

Next support the subframe from below and remove the engine mount bolts after the manifold heat shield has been removed.....on some cars the bolts come through from below rather than from above.

Then the shock top nuts.

Next I tightened up the engine support bar chains just so I could see the smallest of movements. I decided to put the chains round the manifold in the end.

I then removed all four subframe bolts.

Next the anti roll bar.

I then started to lower the subframe.

Let the cleanup begin!

Hi Racediagnostics, thanks for a great explanation of this job. I had a look at my subframe (-88 560 SL), and found this rubber mount. The slack is huge (30mm), and I wonder if this is the correct rubber mount? Maybe you can give me a tip of what is wrong here?

Thanks in advance

 

[RaceDiagnostics]

That happens when the subframe mount has collapsed, you need to renew asap.

 

[miko1aj]

Hey Jim,

@RaceDiagnostics can you tell to what height you had bring the car up to have sufficient clearance to wheel out the subframe please? Also, any chance you might have the part numbers handy of all the bits you replaced, pretty please? The reason I ask is because I'd like to refurbish mine this winter but not sure if can raise the old lady high enough with just car jacks.

 

[natejgreene9871]

I also plan to drop mine this winter. Can someone tell me how roughly how heavy the whole assembly is? Can one person pick it up?

 

[RaceDiagnostics]

I think it must have been up about 1m, I don't remember the exact height needed though, it may be possible with less. I collected all the replacement parts over years so don't have a good list of numbers.

 

[miko1aj]

Thanks Jim, 1m should be doable. I've started collecting part numbers and will share them later.

 

[roncallo]

I also plan to drop mine this winter. Can someone tell me how roughly how heavy the whole assembly is? Can one person pick it up?

204 Lb without the shocks. I have only remover it about 27 times. Which is why I made my dolly wheel assemblies for my four post lift so I can roll the car forward so the front end clears the lift.