Subframe problem - advice please!

Well I finally got round to cutting the front off Fleur and extracting the subframe - which I discovered had been replaced at some point so only has surface rust!

All was goign well stripping it down until I got to the last long lower arm bolt (the one that is hidden inside the frame). It started to undo but was a bit tight. I WD'd id loads and kept doing so then POP. The bloody welded nut seems to have snapped INSIDE the subframe! GRRRR

The question is can I cut a hole in the side of the subframe - circular and the same size as the you can see the head of the bolt through, so I can get to the nut with a ring spanner? I dont think it will weaken the subframe as there are other circular access holes in there already. Also will allow me to waxoyl the inside of the frame once I have wire brushed it all and repainted.

I am only considering this as I have to swap Meg's front subframe as my welding patch was only put on as a temporary MOT pass.

Fingers crossed!

Perhaps, that'll teach you to not to use WD40 as a releasing spray! :evil: You'll have Pete after you! :silly:

Seriously, I think a hole to access the no-longer captive nut will not affect the integrity of the subframe. You could always weld the hole back up again, if you want.:shrug:

David Aiketgate wrote: Perhaps, that'll teach you to not to use WD40 as a releasing spray! :evil: You'll have Pete after you! :silly:

Seriously, I think a hole to access the no-longer captive nut will not affect the integrity of the subframe. You could always weld the hole back up again, if you want.:shrug:

Hehe - Plusgas all the way from now on!

I thought it should be OK - in fact I though if I did a hole each side I could use them to regularly top up the Waxoyl inside, then pop a rubber grommet in it!

Next question is where to get a hole cutter from to cut through subframe metal?

You should be able to buy a hole saw and mandrel at Halfords or any tool shop or motor factor. 35mm maybe? but it will depend on the size wrench you have to fit through.
The grommet idea is a good one. Once they are in place the tester will assume they are stock, particularly as the big oval access holes are just covered by bits of tape (At least they are on my car!)

Rich in Vancouver wrote: You should be able to buy a hole saw and mandrel at Halfords or any tool shop or motor factor. 35mm maybe? but it will depend on the size wrench you have to fit through.
The grommet idea is a good one. Once they are in place the tester will assume they are stock, particularly as the big oval access holes are just covered by bits of tape (At least they are on my car!)

Thanks, I'll have a check in Halfrauds.

Agree about the grommet - I thought that too... extra access and the 'Better then OEM look'!

adamelphick wrote: Agree about the grommet - I thought that too... extra access and the 'Better then OEM look'!

If you want the TF OEM look just stick a piece of Duct tape over the hole.

Oh god. I mentioned Duct tape. :omg:

Hmmmmm?:shrug: :rofl:

It'll be horses and buckets next :lol:

cjj wrote:

adamelphick wrote: Agree about the grommet - I thought that too... extra access and the 'Better then OEM look'!

If you want the TF OEM look just stick a piece of Duct tape over the hole.

Oh god. I mentioned Duct tape. :omg:

The F had the same duct tape - a truly wonderful use for the stuff! LOL

adamelphick wrote:

cjj wrote:

adamelphick wrote: Agree about the grommet - I thought that too... extra access and the 'Better then OEM look'!

If you want the TF OEM look just stick a piece of Duct tape over the hole.

Oh god. I mentioned Duct tape. :omg:

The F had the same duct tape - a truly wonderful use for the stuff! LOL

YES, standard black duct tape is the Original MG Rover part to cover the front oval holes in the sub frame. A standard HSS holesaw will do the job Electricians use them to drill holes in galvanised steel and stainless steel trunking, the sub frame it not that thick and you are olly drilling two holes. Use oil on the cutter on a slow speed and you will be through in no time. go to www.tlc-direct.co.uk and you can mail order them, you also need a mandrel.

Why oh Why do people think that WD40 is a penertrating oil, it isnt, it never was and never will be!!!!! :shrug: :rant: PLUSGAS forever :thumbsup: