removing subframe - HELP!

[anaphe]

Hi Gang,

I have done this a number of time and now I am stuck. 1989 325IX, removing the subframe because of a tweaked inner rear trailing arm mount (inner).

The drivers side bolt came out no problem, the passenger side wont pound out, tried a 5lb sledge last night nothing. Any ideas for a stubborn bolt?

Heat? Cutting the subframe out?

I am thinking the steel sleeve of the bushing is rusted on the bolt. Might be related to the damage or may just be coincidence.

TIA

anthony

[Roysneon]

You're talking about the bolts through the floor of the car through the subframe bushings? It's an aluminum sleeve that the bolt runs through in the middle of the bushing so it is likely gummed up in there but shouldn't give you too much trouble. A few good taps from underneath should pop it up through the floor. The back seat/carpet is pulled up, right?

Maybe try cutting out the rubber sealant on the top of the bolt "Head". A little bit of heat up there might help but I'm not sure I'd do it with so many flamable things around the area (fuel tank!) and the bolt also has to fit back in there tightly when re installing everything.

[jlevie]

Use a bigger hammer.

[cwatt]

Do you plan to replace the subframe bushings? If so, a chizzel between the mount and the body will crack the aluminum nicely. Then drill out or use a small chizel to crack the remainder of the alum in the body. Be careful not to damage the body when doing this. I suggest anti-seize to allow for future removal.

note: I both drilled, then chizeled out the alum. from the body. Less than 5-mins work and that was taking my time.