Rear subframe bushing problem

michmark · #1 9th May 2009, 04:32 AM

I am stripping out a Merkur XR4Ti (the Sierra in the US) and have run into a problem. The 19mm head bolt that goes through the large rubber mounting donut has rusted thoroughly to the metal sleeve that runs inside the rubber. To compound the issue, the captive nut is no longer captive and the bolt, sleeve and nut spin around without loosening. Cutting the head off of the bolt relieved some frustration on my part but did nothing to let the subframe drop down from the body.

Any suggestions for how to attack this?

Mark Bates

jasongray5 · #2 9th May 2009, 05:22 AM

perhaps cutting around the mount (thus creating a hole in the chassis) then sorting it out when its on the floor?

MightyMouth · #3 9th May 2009, 08:55 AM

oxy-acetylene?

Tilly819 · #4 9th May 2009, 01:26 PM

Iff in doubt, get the angle grinder out......... hey that even rhymes teehee

flyerncle · #5 9th May 2009, 06:43 PM

BFI,brute force and ignorance. The suggestion of hole in chassis makes the most sense as you could possibly remove the cap nut,if not attempt to cut sleeve and bolt between frame and chassis.

Good Luck.

michmark · #6 11th May 2009, 02:58 AM

Thanks for all of your suggestions. I have also thought of using my propane torch (I don't have Oxy-acetylene) to burn out the rubber bushing. Probably will be messy and toxic so this will be the last desperate attempt.

Mark Bates

RAYLEE29 · #7 11th May 2009, 09:29 AM

Hi, just a thought, do you actually need to remove the subframe? I have taken out my diff and driveshafts and soon to be taking out hubs but leaving subframe in.
Ray