subframe aligment

[Charlynsane]

Hello Guys,

I just removed my subframe lock tab to paint it,

When I tried to refit the bolt on the right side, it was impossible ,aligment between subframe and shell was wrong,

But I didn't move the car during the process

How can I refit the suframe properly?

Thanks for your help

Charles

[Daz1968]

They can be awkward on the tower bolt and are very easy to cross thread, I would look at the bolts make sure threads aren't damaged, loosen all bolts so subframe can be moved a little and shine a torch down the holes to look at the threads to ensure in line properly, not easy though, it's easier when fitting a subframe to start the bolts before subframe is fully home.

[Charlynsane]

A lot of work just to repaint 2 little plates...

I made a terrible mistake,

Should I remove the exhaust and the gearbox extension bracket as well?

[Daz1968]

No just try loosening the subframe bolts and put them all in loose before tightening up, only time you will have a problem is if you have damaged any threads trying as awkward to tap in situ, it's normally the bolts that get damaged though not the threads in tower

[Charlynsane]

The bold are damaged, I will replace it..

I'm loosing my bravoure!

I don't unstand why the subframe isn't aligned anymore

[Daz1968]

It probably is just it's very easy to cross thread the bolt when starting it off, especially as it hasn't been removed for a long time and a bit of corrosion makes it tight to start, you can check alignment with a piece of round bar small enough to pass a standard nut and just put a small taper on it so you can check the alignment before trying the bolt,

[Charlynsane]

Thank you for your help!

I feel like crying but I will do my best, !!

[Charlynsane]

Hello

I unbolt the subframe, aligned it

But when I tightened the bolts, The thread (of the bolt) had been flatened, I didn't understand why

I'm waiting for spares,

In case it goed wrong again, I still have a fuel can and some matches!

[mk1]

In case it goed wrong again, I still have a fuel can and some matches!

I am sure that things won't get that bad

As has already been said get all the bolts in very loosley & then once you know they are all in you can tighten them up. Getting everything moving again can be a bit tricky, but it will go back, don't worry.

[Charlynsane]

Sorry fo my joke guys!

I hope the thread on the subframe are good!

[Charlynsane]

Just a little question,

do the screws has the same thread between hydro and dry front subframe?

My car has been converted to dry suspension but I don't know if this is the original subframe,

any idea?

It's may be the solution, and wy I flattened my thread when I tightened the bolts?

[Spitz]

If you're worried about the threads on the subframe, perhaps find a tap long enough and turn it through. (once aligned )

When all the subframe bolts are loosened off, you should be able to fit a thin enough brass drift down one bolt hole to check alignment.
Perhaps it would help to lift some of the weight of the body while trying to fit (?)

[BRI MK1]

No the threads are the same 5/16 unf .

[Charlynsane]

hello guys

two threads are dead...

I think I'll have to remove the subframe..

Can I put a helicoil whithout removing the subframe?

Any idea?

Thanks!

[smithyrc30]

Can I put a helicoil without removing the subframe?

If you want to do a good job, no you can't.

[Charlynsane]

thanks guys

it's a long way to the top...

[mk1]

Sorry to hear that this has gone bad on you.

The only way to fix the helicoils properly is to remove the frame.

Good luck.

[Charlynsane]

Hello Mark!

This this the car you help me to athentify!

My dream car, a mk1 cooper full matching numbers! the previous owner decided that the engine wasn't enough powerful he decided to fit a 1071..!! My first time with this engine! luckily I still have the 998

[rich@minispares.com]

No the threads are the same 5/16 unf .

wet frames are 5/16 unf

dry are 3/8th unf

[Charlynsane]

Hi Rich,

Thank you I received my order this morning!! (so quick I ordered yesterday morning )

I finally Find a way..

I aligned my subframe perfectly,

Take an extra long 5/16 Tap and I remade the thread deeper,

I tightened the bolt and it's fine, I thighnned it gently, and it's fine!!!

Next step the brakes...

Thank for your help and kindness! it's nice to be suuported in difficult moment of a restoration!!