So, hi all

Yesterday was a great day, but for the fact that I drove my beloved XJS onto the curb at just the right speed to result in a bent crossmember, front axle, subframe - call it what you may. Nothing else has much been compromised, but the subframe is a goner.

No idea what one does in these cases: get a refurb one, go to the junkyard, try to fix/straighten the damaged one, forget it altogether?

If there's any ideas or suggestions out there in the infobahn, or if someone has a spare subframe, because some people do stock up on subframes, let me know.

Any help at this point would be greatly appreciated.

 

Try to get a used one, suppliers such as Coventry West should be able to help.

 

If you hit the curb in a manner to damage all those things be sure and check your wheel its probably bent also

 

Got to be a rebuild of the suspension onto a 'new' subframe, or buy an entire front subframe with suspension. The thing would not have bent unless it was nearly rusted out, anyway.

Greg

 

Thanks for the suggestions. I've had the funniest idea of transporting my truly excellent V12 from this vehicle to an '76 XJ12 I just bought. No idea if it's feasible though. I don't know anything and the XJ engine bay looks so tiny in comparison.

 

nonfinito,

Sorry to hear about the problem. That's not one I've heard before. Rusted sub-frame, that's common. But a bent sub-frame is very unusual. I tend to agree with Greg that the only way that might happen would be if the sub-frame was significantly compromised by corrosion. Either that or you must have hit something with a hell of a thump. Therefore I would also check the sub-frame mounts haven't tried to rip out of the body.

If you buy a sub-frame, buy it bare and thoroughly check it over for corrosion in the usual places, especially those hidden lower spring pan seats. You can then ensure its integrity and rebuild all the front susoension, bearings and brakes as part of the refit.

Good luck

Paul

 

I had a 76 XJ12L. What a great car, beautiful ride and decent handling. I do want another.
A 17 year old t-boned it and destroyed it.