Right, I'll be replacing my front suspension soon, all the wishbone bushes, springs, shock absorbers, etc, vee mounts were already replaced last year by the garage where they cracked the sump during oil change. Dropping the subframe is out of question due to amount of work and tools needed. The big bush hides there:



..sandwiched and hidden between two metal plates. Thinking about this, I was wondering what would happen if I undid the big bolt, shock and vee mounts and lifted the body on this side by maybe 4 inches? Would the subframe with engine stayed on the floor and the rest of the body lifted up ok giving me full access to the bush or am I missing something here? If that was the case I could just cut out the old bush and press the new in, also this would possibly clear enough space to get the lower wishbone bush without removing the rack. Anyone can think of what might be in the way here?

Also any ideas what the spring pan bolt grade is? Jaguar want a fiver per each bolt, where I can get 12 bolts for a fiver in 12.9/10.9 or 8.8 from the local shop.

 

So how did they crack the sump?

Interested in the bushing replacement too.

Ric

 

Usual story, garage overtightened oil sump drain bolt and hairline crack appeared which leaked oil pretty bad, especially when warm. Took them over 2 days to drop the subframe and replace the sump, sadly the big rear bushes didn't arrive on time so they only replaced the vee mounts while in there(free of charge so wont complain). Also replaced pas fluid so no noises.

 

Not saying it can't be done as I have done the V mounts using a similar approach where I let the subframe pivot on the rear bushes while I lowered the engine/subframe - but only about 40mm. But what you need to consider carefully are the things that are attached to the body and the engine/subframe.

So for example, Fuel Lines, Exhaust, Brake Lines, Steering column, Trans Cooler Lines and rear Trans mount, Wiring looms. Probably others that I haven't thought of.

 

Worth considering new engine mounts when you have the subframe off.

 

My guess is that you won't be able to do one side at once, I would think that there would not be enough movement in the opposite side to allow the frame to drop enough for the clearance you would need.
you would also need to disconnect the steering column where it joins the rack at least.