Rear CROSSMEMBER
| 1 - LEFT FRAME RAIL |
| 2 - REAR FRAME CROSSMEMBER |
| 3 - RIGHT FRAME RAIL |
- Mount the vehicle on appropriate frame correction equipment ("frame rack") and using a three-dimensional measuring system measure frame/body and correct to vehicle specifications. Refer to FRAME, SPECIFICATIONS .
- Remove rear bumper components. Refer to BUMPER, REAR, REMOVAL .
- Remove hitch receiver or tow hook if equipped. Refer to HITCH, TRAILER, REMOVAL .
- Release rear body mount fasteners, and loosen remaining body fasteners to allow lifting the body upward providing work access. Refer to ISOLATOR, BODY, REMOVAL .
- Using a reciprocating saw, or equivalent, cut the crossmember close to the welds to the side rails and body mount brackets (1) and remove (each side of crossmember has a total of 7 welds).
- Using an angle grinder, grind off remaining crossmember and weldments.
- Dress new crossmember at weld locations so that a very shallow bevel is created and remove any e-coat, inside and out, on replacement part within 25.4 mm (1") of weld zones as best possible.
- Refer to the weld chart for proper weld rod and approximate welder settings, then using the old crossmember adjust the welder to create a proper weld bead. Refer to FRAME, SPECIFICATIONS .
- Install the crossmember and locate using three-dimensional measuring equipment.
- When proper, tack-weld crossmember securely in position (1).
- Complete weld installation of crossmember ensuring proper weld penetration.
- Clean welded area of any burned coatings or spatter.
- Apply refinish materials to exterior of crossmember and side rails (2) to restore appearance and corrosion protection.
- Apply inner panel anti-corrosion material inside crossmember.
- Install the rear body mount fasteners and tighten all fasteners. Refer to ISOLATOR, BODY, INSTALLATION .
- Install hitch receiver/tow hook. Refer to HITCH, TRAILER, INSTALLATION .
- Install bumper components. Refer to BUMPER, REAR, INSTALLATION .