I'm stuck. I'm dropping the subframe so I can change my clutch, but the subframe is hung up. The U-joint that connects the steering column to the steering box just won't come free, and the entire subframe is dangling from that U-joint clamp. And, yes, I've pulled the bolt out of the U-joint clamp.

Does anyone have any advice? I suppose I can disconnect the upper clamp on the steering shaft's middle section (whatever that part is called), but it just seems like it shouldn't be necessary. It wasn't two years ago when I was changed a leaking tranny seal. At least I've got all week to get this car back on the road.

Thanks,
Scott

 

lube? having just done this job 3 times there isn't much room to hit the clamp but maybe a long socket extension or drift and you can tap it off?

 

Hmmm... I've got to see how I can get a drift onto it, access being tight down there.... Thanks for the idea.

Scott

 

Typical Christmas day... no time to head out to the garage to play with the car. I'll do this tomorrow.

Merry Christmas, everyone!

Scott

 

I've dropped my subframe probably close to a half-dozen times. Just spray the crap out of it with some WD-40, and let it sit over night. It should slide right off after you pull the bolt out of it (the bolt has to come all the way out...not just loose).

 

 

Once you get it apart coat the pieces with never seize before putting it back together. I'll make life easier if you ever have to do it again.

 

Odd, but I replied yesterday and now I don't see any hint of my reply. Anyway, I jacked the subframe up snugly to the bottom of the car, and then the steering joint just pivoted back away from the steering box's input shaft with one finger. That's why I had no problem two years ago. Anyway, the subframe is dropped and the tranny is out, but with other problems now visible....

Thanks everyone.
Scott

 

glad it worked out in the end