Technical Subframe Replacement

[TigerTom]

Hi Everyone,

Got an MOT fail or subframe corrosion on my 06 Grande Punto.

Basically its rusted through on the passenger side behind the wishbone.

I've ordered a new poweder coated subframe with a 10 year warranty.

Bit disappointed really. I know the car is 13 years old, but it's really rusty. I got an advisory on the wishbones as well. I'll try and replace them later this year.

Are there any pitfalls to watch out for.

From what I can see I need to drop the exhaust, the engine mount in the middle, unbolt the wishbones and drop it out.

Anything else I'm missing? I've only had a very quick look at it with the car on the ground.

 

[nikrox]

I had this problem a few months ago..£20 from my local breaker for a replacement...
I did mine on my drive with the car on axel stands,front and rear.
It took two of us to remove and then lift the 'new' one in position as its heavy.
Biggest problem was undoing the exhaust studs.
Not a difficult job tbh ,just the weight.
I cant remember but am pretty sure the wishbones have to come out...perfect time to replace them..why do the job twice?..

 

[TigerTom]

Thanks Nikrox.

I paid £205 for a brand new one with a 10 year warranty.

I'll have to get my neighbour to help me lift it down I think.

My centre pipe is only 6 months old so figers crossed it comes off ok. Otherwise its a grinder job.

 

[nikrox]

tbh I think I used a trolley jack to lower it..

 

[nikrox]

https://www.fiatforum.com/grande-punto/471774-sub-frame-ask.html

 

[TigerTom]

Thanks Nikrox,

Can I get away with not removing the steering knuckle?

From what I remember when doing the CV joint the bolt on the bottom had corroded to the point where it was round and the threads on the bolt were non existant.

Otherwise it would have to be destructive removal.:bang:

Can I remove it from the inner side instead by undoing the nut?

Cheers,

Thomas

 

[nikrox]

Sorry I cant remember...What I can say,which will hopefully help is to prepare the car by spraying all the fixings,bolts/nuts etc with a quality wd type spray.And do it a few times before you start the job.
I would also recommend a long bar and if you have it an impact gun..woulda made my job a damn site easier and quicker.
Lastly,give yourself a good day and do the job in one hit..

 

[TigerTom]

Thanks Nikrox.

Yh I've got a 2ft breaker bar and a length of exhaust pipe.

Also got a 1/2" Dewalt impact gun that has a ridiculous amount of torque.

Only snag is it's a bit heavy if you're using it at arms length for a while.

WD40 bath is in order first though.