Subframe removal

[pol]

Hi All,

So my 1.8t sport failed the MOT. Looks like the previous owner has hacked away at the subframe. I've picked u a replacement on ebay and am going to replace wishbones at the same time.

Does the subframe support the engine on this car or can I safely remove it without engine support?

Also, any tips on doing this job would be appreciated.

Cheers,
Paul

 

[jojo]

Nope, the subframe can just drop down without disturbing the engine.

 

[pol]

Sweet. Cheers for that.

Is it easy enough to get to the lower balljoints on the end of the wishbones? What needs to come off in order to get to those. Can that be done without removing driveshafts?

I should really get a Haynes manual or something.

 

[Lewis583]

Yeah, they're held onto the lower suspension arm by 3 13mm headed bolts. Shafts don't need to be touched.

 

[pol]

Thanks... Ah, but I need to remove the balljoints. I have new wishbones with balljoints ready to fit to the new subframe... I'm expecting there'll be things in the way in order to get those out... Maybe not?