CROSSMEMBER, Cradle, Engine And Suspension: Removal
- Remove the throttle body if necessary to install the engine support tool. Refer to THROTTLE BODY, REMOVAL or refer to THROTTLE BODY, REMOVAL or refer to THROTTLE BODY, REMOVAL .
- Support engine using (special tool #8984C, Fixture, Engine Lifting) (special tool #8534C, Fixture, Driveline Support) or equivalent.
- Remove the transmission skid plate. Refer to REMOVAL
- Remove the front skid plate. Refer to REMOVAL
- Remove the motor mount nuts (2).
- Remove the catalytic converter heat shield from the frame.CAUTION:
Steering column module is centered to the vehicles steering system. Failure to keep the system and steering column module centered and locked/inhibited from rotating can result in steering column module damage.
NOTE:For further information
Refer to CLOCKSPRING, STANDARD PROCEDURE .
- Place the front wheels in the straight ahead position with the steering wheel centered and locked with a steering wheel lock.
- Remove the steering shaft coupler pinch bolt (1) and disconnect the coupler (2) from the steering shaft.
- Remove the front wheel speed sensors. Refer to SENSOR, WHEEL SPEED, FRONT, REMOVAL .
- Remove both brake calipers and hang to the side. Refer to CALIPER, DISC BRAKE, REMOVAL
.
- Support the outside of the lower control arms with a suitable holding fixture, and raise to normal ride height.
- Remove the upper ball joint nuts.
- Separate the upper ball joints (2) from the knuckles (3) using (special tool #C-4150A, Press, Ball Joint).
- Remove the shock clevis bracket to lower control arm nut/bolts (1).
- Mark front driveshaft (1) and pinion flange (2) for installation reference. Remove driveshaft from pinion flange.
- Disconnect the steering gear wire harness connectors (1).
- Disconnect the steering gear wire harness connector (1).
- Remove the bolts (1) from the rear brackets.
- Using a grease pencil or equivalent, mark the location of the cradle on the underbody.
- Support the cradle (1) with suitable lifting device.
- Remove the four cradle bolts (3) and separate the cradle crossmember (1) and brackets (2) from the vehicle.
As necessary;
- Remove the lower control arms. Refer to ARM, LOWER CONTROL, REMOVAL .
- Remove the front drive axle. Refer to REMOVAL .
- Remove the steering gear. Refer to GEAR, REMOVAL .
- Remove the sway bar. Refer to STABILIZER BAR, FRONT, REMOVAL .
- Remove the frame dampener bolts.