Front sub-frame assembly

[RamAirGAGT]

Anyone know how to remove this? I was wondering because I was thinking about getting some sway bars, and pfyc says it needs to be removed to install them.

[95-GT]

as far as I know, the subframe system on the newer GA's is one piece. You shouldnt have to remove the subframe tho. I think what they mean is remove the swaybar from the subframe....ie removing the bolt that connects the swaybay to the subframe, thus removing it.

[JayDoc]

Here's the GM service manual instructions for 02 GT front swaybar replacement. I did this with a friend at his shop three months ago. I wouldn't recommend doing it without a lift. It took us a couple of hours including modifying the ES brackets to fit.

You don't have to separate the tie rods (step 4) and it's much easier to remove the midpoint bushing brackets (step 7) after the subframe is lowered. You'll also need to do something about the aluminum line that is secured to the top of the right bushing bracket bolt. It hits the larger diameter swaybar when driving over hard bumps. I just bought some insulation similar to what's already on it and extended it just past the point that it contacts the swaybar. The endlinks are torqued to 13 lb ft. I used Mantapart's poly endlinks but switched the bolts and nuts to grade 8 steel. If you do this mod, you're gonna love it :thumbup2:


Front Stabilizer Shaft Replacement

Removal Procedure

1. Raise and support the vehicle, allowing the front suspension to hang free. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
2. Remove the front tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
3. Remove the stabilizer shaft links. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement
4. Remove the tie rods (3) from the steering knuckles (6). Refer to Tie Rod End Replacement - Outer in Power Steering System.
5. Remove the bolt from the rear transmission mount (4).
6. Remove the power steering line bracket from the suspension crossmember.
7. Remove the bolts (1) from the clamps (2) attaching the stabilizer shaft (3) to the crossmember (4).
8. Support the rear of the crossmember (4) with an adjustable jack stand.
9. Remove the control arm to body bolts (3).
10. Loosen the front bolts (5) on the crossmember (4).
11. Remove the rear crossmember to body bolts.
12. Lower the crossmember (4) three inches by adjusting the jack stands down.
13. Remove the stabilizer shaft from the vehicle.

Installation Procedure

1. Install the stabilizer shaft to the vehicle.
Notice
Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

2. Install the front crossmember bolts (5). Tighten
Tighten the front crossmember bolts to 245 N·m (180 lb ft).
3. Install the control arm to body bolts (3). Tighten
Tighten the control arm to body bolts to 245 N·m (180 lb ft).
4. Install the rear crossmember body bolts. Tighten
Tighten the rear crossmember bolts to 70 N·m (52 lb ft).
5. Install the clamps (2) and the bolts (1) to the stabilizer shaft (3). Tighten
Tighten the bolts to 66 N·m (49 lb ft).
6. Install the power steering line bracket to the suspension crossmember.
7. Install the bolt (1) to the rear transmission mount (4). Tighten
Tighten the bolt to 120 N·m (89 lb ft).
8. Install the tie rods (3) to the steering knuckles (6). Refer to Tie Rod End Replacement - Outer in Power Steering System.
9. Install the stabilizer shaft links. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement .
10. Install the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
11. Lower the vehicle.