Subframe replacement - torsion bar mount/transmission
#1203547
03/25/12 11:19 PM
03/25/12 11:19 PM
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I need to replace the driver's side subsframe. This is in the area where the torsion bar is mounted and where the transmission crossmember is bolted. Basically, my torsion bar is rusted in place and I've noticed considerable weakness as part of trying to work it free. So, I think the best thing to do is to remove and replace that section.
I've already got the replacement section and it runs from the rocker panel area to the high point of the transmission tunnel. One mitigating factor is that this is a convertible so it has the torque boxes. The replacement section I have does not have torque boxes.
Where would you recommend I cut out the old frame and does anyone have any pointers on the easiest way to remove the rusted section give what I have to replace it?
Also, is the frame section just tacked along the outer edge of the frame to the floor pans? Or will there be welds I need to drill? I've not done this before and wanted to get some advice on my best
Fortunately, the other side had been fixed previously (although I've seen better jobs). So, I will only need to do one side.
Thanks for the help in advance!
1966 Barracuda
1968 Barracuda convertible
1930 Ford Model A (soon to be hemi equipped)
2006 Dodge 3500 4X4 CTD Quad Cab
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Re: Subframe replacement - torsion bar mount/transmission
[Re: rapom]
#1203549
03/26/12 09:05 AM
03/26/12 09:05 AM
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rapom
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Re: Subframe replacement - torsion bar mount/transmission
[Re: rapom]
#1203550
03/26/12 09:07 AM
03/26/12 09:07 AM
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Here is the problem cut out. I also replaced the rotted metal on the rocker but I don't have a picture of it.
Last edited by rapom; 03/26/12 09:31 AM.
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Re: Subframe replacement - torsion bar mount/transmission
[Re: rapom]
#1203551
03/26/12 09:09 AM
03/26/12 09:09 AM
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rapom
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Re: Subframe replacement - torsion bar mount/transmission
[Re: rapom]
#1203552
03/26/12 09:11 AM
03/26/12 09:11 AM
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Tacked in. Here you can see the rocker metal has also been replaced.
Last edited by rapom; 03/26/12 09:34 AM.
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Re: Subframe replacement - torsion bar mount/transmission
[Re: rapom]
#1203553
03/26/12 09:12 AM
03/26/12 09:12 AM
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rapom
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Re: Subframe replacement - torsion bar mount/transmission
[Re: rapom]
#1203554
03/26/12 09:13 AM
03/26/12 09:13 AM
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Re: Subframe replacement - torsion bar mount/transmission
[Re: rapom]
#1203555
03/26/12 09:15 AM
03/26/12 09:15 AM
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Remove floor pan. As you can see in the pictures I had jack stands everywhere, a floor jack under the K -frame and the repair area blocked up with wood.
Last edited by rapom; 03/26/12 09:18 AM.
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Re: Subframe replacement - torsion bar mount/transmission
[Re: rapom]
#1203556
03/26/12 09:20 AM
03/26/12 09:20 AM
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Another pic.
Last edited by rapom; 03/26/12 09:21 AM.
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Re: Subframe replacement - torsion bar mount/transmission
[Re: rapom]
#1203559
03/26/12 09:29 AM
03/26/12 09:29 AM
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Re: Subframe replacement - torsion bar mount/transmission
[Re: rapom]
#1203560
03/26/12 10:03 AM
03/26/12 10:03 AM
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Wow! Those are very helpful. Thank you very much. I'm going to study them a little bit more to make sure I understand what all is going on.
FWIW, the floorpans had already previously been replaced on my convertible. So, I am planning to NOT have to cut them out. I think that may make it a little tougher to replace. But, it shouldn't be that big a deal.
Based on your pictures and experience (as best I can tell), I am thinking that I probably should cut out from even with the torque box across to an inch or 2 short of the mounting point for the tranny cross-member. That way I won't have to be as concerned about getting the bolt holes lined up. And, getting in behind the torque box will be tough. If it turns out I need to cut out more due to rust, I can do that as well after I remove the first section.
I'll make sure I support the car with jacks on either side of where I splice it in. Although, one good thing I have in my favor is that the engine and transmission are out as is the interior and lots of other weight. I'll still support it, though.
Again, thanks for the help. I'll probably be back with more questions.
1966 Barracuda
1968 Barracuda convertible
1930 Ford Model A (soon to be hemi equipped)
2006 Dodge 3500 4X4 CTD Quad Cab
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