2007 R56 Mini Hatchback

How do I get to the bolts holding down the bracket for the front sway bar bushings? I'm replacing front and rear sway bar bushings and end links. Rear is no problem; front linkages are no problem but how do I get to the bolts that hold down the bracket holding the front sway bar bushings?

I can see the front bolt on each side and was able to spray PB Blaster on the front bolts on each side but I cannot even see the both holding the back end of the bracket and am not certain how I'll get a wrench on the front bolt, much less the rear bolt.

Tips and pics welcome.

THANKS,
Joe

 

The front subframe will need to be at least partially lowered, if not completely removed. There are YouTube videos showing subframe lowering. Be aware that the same bolts hold the front control arm bushing brackets in place, and are tightened to over 100 ft-lbs. It takes some serious leverage to break them loose.

 

After posting my question, I Googled around, found some YouTube videos and lots of discussion. I'm not even going to try it, too much work for an almost-80 yr old guy with a few hand tools.

Replacing the rear bushings and front and rear linkages are no problem.

Thanks for confirming what I found.

 

Your Googling is correct. Don't feel bad, I'm 30 years your junior and do most of my own work, and it was too much for me as well.

If you have a pro do the job, be sure to have him replace the front lower control arm bushings, preferably with the Powerflex polyurethane ones. The stock ones are junk and it's another job that requires front subframe drop.

 

Yep, some people use a box end wrench and a cheater bar to break them loose if stuck. The PB blaster is a life saver if you soak things down overnight.

 

I had the subframe removed, and had to use a 36" breaker bar with an impact socket to break those bolts loose. There was NO WAY mine were coming off with the subframe still in the car.