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k-huevo
03-13-2007, 09:24 PM
Tools needed for subframe removal:
8mm, 10mm, 13mm, 16mm sockets
Socket extension
¼ drive and/or 3/8ths drive ratchet, ½ inch drive ratchet and/or long breaker bar
17mm open end wrench, (optional 16mm ratcheting box end wrench)
Phillips screw driver
Ball joint removal tool (BMW 32-3-090 or equivalent, NAPA KD3916 used)
Torque wrenches capable of 7 to 74 ft-lb range
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0577.JPG

Tools for anti-sway bar installation:
18mm socket, ratchet
Long breaker bar or impact wrench
Torque wrench 122 ft-lb capable
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0584.JPG

Equipment:
Automotive hydraulic jack
Vehicle stands

Remove the reservoir bracket and bend the heat shield upward to allow the reservoir to pass downward; it is easier to perform these steps before lifting the vehicle.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0554.JPG

Place the vehicle on stands and remove the front wheels. Remove the lower steering shaft universal joint pinch bolt with a 13mm (ratcheting box end or ratchet & socket).
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0555.JPG

k-huevo
03-13-2007, 09:26 PM
Remove the power steering fan and unplug the connector.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0560.JPG

Remove the bumper cover and bumper. Although this can be done solo it helps to have assistance holding the bumper cover while unplugging the light fixtures and thermometer.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0557.JPG

Unscrew this bolt connecting the radiator support to the crush tube.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0559.JPG

Unbolt the crush tube; this is where a long breaker-bar or long handled ½ inch drive ratchet (recommended) come in handy.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0558.JPG

k-huevo
03-13-2007, 09:27 PM
Disconnect the drop link from the swaybar. The tie rod can get in the way for access with a ratchet so, either use a ratcheting box end wrench, disconnect the link’s upper mounting point first, or pop the tie rod ball joint. The sequence is not critical, but removal is.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0561.JPG

Take the wheel speed sensor wire off its perch.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0573.JPG

Undo the tie rod nut.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0562.JPG

Pop the steering tie rod ball joint; be careful here because it will release energy violently so never operate a ball joint removal tool overhead.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0564.JPG

k-huevo
03-13-2007, 09:29 PM
Unbolt the outer ball joint bracket to steering knuckle.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0563.JPG

Remove the lower engine vibration damper mount bolt.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0565.JPG

Place the lift pad from an automotive jack under the round hole in the center of the subframe and raise the pad till it can support.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0566.JPG

k-huevo
03-13-2007, 09:31 PM
Remove the forward subframe mounting bolts.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0571.JPG
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0567.JPG

Remove the other subframe bolts.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0570.JPG

Lower the subframe enough to access the power steering connectors and unplug them.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0574.JPG

k-huevo
03-13-2007, 09:33 PM
Continue to lower the subframe, go slowly making sure the power steering reservoir passes freely.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0575.JPG

Roll the subframe from under the vehicle while continuing to monitor the power steering reservoir.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0576.JPG

Unbolt the swaybar/control arm bushing bracket.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0579.JPG

Install the new swaybar/stabilizer bar and torque to 122 ft-lb.
http://www.lonestarminiclub.com/gallery/files/2/0/DSCN0581.JPG

Install in reverse.

Torque values:
Subframe 74 ft-lb
Tie-rod ball joint 38 ft-lb
Outer ball joint to steering knuckle 41 ft-lb
Swaybar end link 41 ft-lb
Crush tube to subframe 74 ft-lb
Bumper to modular front end/crush tubes 16 ft-lb
Lower engine vibration damper 74 ft-lb
Power steering fan to pump bracket 14 ft-lb
Lower steering shaft universal joint pinch bolt 16 ft-lb
Bushing bracket to body, replace bolt, 44 ft-lb + 90 degee turn