help with subframe mounts !!

[still.popimpin]

So, as well as welding the strut rod reciever, i am going to replace the subframe bushings on my 90 sho. I have a few questions though. Is there a thread with pics or steps on how to do the front mounts? I know how to do the backs. Also, the guy i bought the car off of has the paperwork about the recalls, but i dont think they were done, how and were do i pull the carpet back to look, and what do i look for. Also, if they are not done, can i buy the parts and do it myself?

also, my car does this:
steering wheel turned to the right
car pulls hard under acceleration
clunks and swerves over bumps
tires squeal when turning
car grabs cracks and grooves and pulls or rides them
car just feels really loose, and is all over the road.

question is, do you guys think by doing the things above, it will solve these problems?

 

[TYSHO]

Airing up your tires to 37-42psi hot and installing new subframe bushing should help out, then make it easier to diagnose the suspension and see what's left.

When you pull the carpet back, you're going to be looking for a ********* rubber plug deal about the size of a half dollar, maybe larger, on each side of the floor board.

The back and front bushing should be the same, nothing different. Installation procedures for the suframe bushings can be found in a search. If you're installing aluminum ones, you need a file to file away any rust in the inside diameter of the subframe where the mount goes through. It's a simple and quick replacement as long as you don't have problems with rust and mounting flanges shearing.

Yes, you can install the recall kits yourself. Part numbers can be found in a search, or just go to your local dealer and have them order you some. Lately, the prices on the internet have went up and over the Ford cost, so it would be cheaper to just go to the dealer.


Edit: Here's a write up on installing Al SFB's: http://www.kurtmetros.com/subframe.html

 

[johndallara]

subframe bushing replacement

Here is another write-up on doing the SFB install:

http://www.shophoenixproject.com/sfb/sfb.htm

Have the recall done if it has not been done -- Looked to be a bit of a pain for the rear SFB, but my local Ford shop mechanics did it without a fuss. The newer welded nut receiver is much sturdier than stock.

Once the recall is done for the rear SFBs, installation is not hard. The front factory SFBs are a little more difficult to get off, but also do-able by the weekend mechanic.

I would definitely recommend the aluminum SFBs, esp. for the 5-speed.

 

[NIGHT_RIDER]

I just didi this to my bro's car and have 2 more cars lined up to do, Lemme kno if you need any help, I'm in Dearborn.

 

[Snake2715]

Good info guys.

 

[LeddZepp8687]

whatever you do, take it easy on the fronts, the way the front nutplate is held on it is very easy to break the two small tabs holding the plate down, and when it breaks, you have nothingup there to hold onto. I had to cut the head of the bolt off and then maneuver the bolt out the very small hole up there. all in all it was a huge PITA.

rears are a sinch on the other hand. those took me like 20-30 minutes.

 

[Devin]

Looking at the SHOPP post, I am so glad my car has no rust. That looked terrible!

 

[armerdan]

I know this tread is old, but it kinda sounds like your tie rod ends are loose as far as the steering irregularity, tires squealing when you turn, sure it's not the power steering pump slipping because the serpentine belt is too loose?

 

[93rev2sev]

I am also in your area and can help. I love to look at other SHOs to see their condition. Shoot me a PM if you need anything.

 

[thorrinn123]

leddzepp when you broke your front tabs on the front nutplate how did you fix it....did you get a recall kit??? i broke my tabs off the front one and have a recall kit but don't know how to fix it?