Author Topic: Need help dropping rear subframe (Read 7702 times)

P. Kennedy · « **Reply #15 on:** September 08, 2008, 11:19:09 AM »

Ooooooooooo...air hammer. Now we're talking. I need SHARP chisels too. I couldn't core an apple with mine.

On a stupid note, grinding was fruitless. I kinda forgot you can't grind aluminum.

monty: Nice M5. Love the updated wheels.

monty23psk · « **Reply #16 on:** September 08, 2008, 03:23:03 PM »

^ thanks.

P. Kennedy · « **Reply #17 on:** October 09, 2008, 01:59:14 PM »

Removed the rear axle carrier and trailing arms. I just torched the old subframe bushing remnants and let them burn off. Worked great. In the process of drilling out the aluminum that broke off as it is still seized to the body. 15/16" drill bit seems just about right.

Still can't get the dang wheel flange or wheel bearings out though. I keep seeing references to a circlip, but I can't see one. A friend and I are using a 10-ton hydraulic press and still not having much luck. Could the circlips be our stumbling blocks? Have already tried slide hammers, home-made press, the Sir Tool, all to no avail.

Wizard · « **Reply #18 on:** October 09, 2008, 06:27:29 PM »

The Circlip (lock ring) holds the wheel bearing in the trailing arm:

It just holds the wheel bearing in place. The hub can still be pressed out (or beat out) from the back side of the trailing arm.

P. Kennedy · « **Reply #19 on:** October 10, 2008, 12:49:04 PM »

Yeah, I printed out that same diagram from RealOEM and have been staring at it for weeks. My buddy with the 10 ton press thinks it's just rusted in real good from the car being in WI all it's life. They use salt on most roads here in winter.

Thanks Wiz. Where in S.W. FL are you?