Subframe issues

[manicho]

Hello R3V,,,

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!

I need some help assessing this subframe issue.

Took the car to the shop to have all bushings replaced and when I got there the mechanic showed me the horrific issue with my subframe. Please be so kind to share your expertise in this mater and let me know if I should fix, sell or part out.

1987is with unknown miles. Tack stoped working at 140.000

[AWDBOB]

yer subframe ain't go no bolts pal

Are the bolts broken, or just missing?

[manicho]

Thank you for noticing buddy! I believe they are broken.

[hozzziii]

I mean if the subframe got no bolts, that means the engine is resting on the control arms am I right?
I gotta show this to somebody. I had never seen an unsprung engine before.

In all seriousness, I would recommend the guy support the engine's weight from the fenders up top, then remove the subframe entirely, and check it for major damage around where the bolts go.
Also check the threads for the bolts on the chassis, that maybe why they fell out. If there are no threads, well :)

Also remove that rust between the subframe and the chassis to check how deep it goes. Maybe you can source a good subframe, but if the chassis is bad, probably best not keep it.

Then we arrive at the rear, yeah same thing, peel off the rust and a bit of the paint to check how bad it is. Usually you get a good idea if it's worth keeping at that point.

And post some pictures of the inspections while you're at it, more info is always better.

[manicho]

Thank you so much for your input. Much appreciated! Unfortunately, the shop was unable to take on this project and literally left me and my engine hanging. I will gladly pay the right person to handle this issue. If you or anyone know of someone that can help. I am in Fairfield county CT. Again thank you!

[Northern]

Subframe doesn't look bad in the pics, just the bolts are sheared off/missing.

Hopefully they're just sheared off and you can get them extracted or drilled/tapped and be on your way with some new bolts.
+1 to cleaning/repainting where the rust is, and coat it with some fluidfilm or cavity wax before bolting it back together to keep the moisture away from the two mating surfaces.

Trunk pocket will need a patch, but it's easy to access and relatively straightforward.

[jbontke]

What exactly do you need help with? Advice for repair price? Do-it-yourself guidance on the repair?

[manicho]

Thank you guys for all the feedback! Yes, advice with repair price and or is this something that can be done without a lift.

thank you again!

[redneckvtek]

The bolts just look missing. I dont see any broken parts hanging out.

If they are just missing its a pretty easy job to replace them, assuming nothing is broken.

[tomstin]

From what I see, all that can be repaired on jack stands in your garage. 30+ year old cars are going to be needy. If you can't do the majority of the work yourself, they can get very expensive very quickly.

Without a solid maintenance history, you can plan on having to replace most rubber bushings and hose throughout the car. Timing belt age is CRITICAL. Fuel hoses come next. Then suspension and brake parts.

[manicho]

Again thank you! Is there anyone you guys can recommend me to do the job? I am in north side of Fairfield county Bridgeport Fairfield area.

[hasa]

Why the original "shop" did not repair this? The car is undriveable in this condition.

[manicho]

Unfortunately, the original shop did not want to take on this project and for some reason it has been difficult finding a shop to fix this. The car has been sitting in my parking lot ever since. It’s the main reason I rather sell it if I can’t find the right person to fix it. I currently also own a later model e30 that would love to a motor swap. I would be willing to do some type of trade if anyone is interested.

[zaq123]

Was this car sitting in the ocean? Can't believe bolt heads just rusted like that. With some knowhow, the remainder of those bolts (threaded portion) can be extracted from the frame(unibody) rails, just need some patience and time. If you are set to keeping that car and not able to do this yourself, I don't see why any shop (not necessary e30 mechanic) can't do it for you. It's just a matter of removing the remainder of those bolts and using new 10.9 grade M10X65 bolts (x4).

[82eye]

kinda looks like the car sustained front end damage like hitting a curb dead on at fair rate of speed. the sub bolts probably sheared. they wouldn't have rusted out. the shop won't want to touch it as the frame is probably bent now.