Checking the condition and replacing the powertrain suspension supports (Opel Astra H)

Examination

1. The engine is rigidly connected to the transmission assembly and has a common suspension with it, which is made in the form of a subframe and 4 supports - the right and left supports are attached to the side members, and the front and rear supports are attached to the subframe. The general layout of the powertrain suspension supports is shown in the accompanying illustration.



2. If necessary, jack up the front of the vehicle and support it to ensure free access. If equipped, remove the crankcase guard.

3. Check the condition of the rubber support cushions. If cracks, delamination, separation from the metal base, signs of rubber hardening, or other similar defects are detected, replace the support.

4. Using a torque wrench, check the tightening force of the support fasteners.



5. Using a crowbar, check the bearings for signs of excessive play - if necessary, ask an assistant to rock the unit in different directions and observe the behavior of the bearings. Play present in new components leads to rapid wear of the bearings. Replace defective components.

Replacement

Note: Before removing components, mark their installation positions with paint.

Right support

6. To remove the right support, it is necessary to install special devices (see section 5) and unscrew the bolts securing the support to the side member and to the engine bracket (see illustrations 7.19, 6.22).

Front support

7. Set the parking brake, then jack up the front of the vehicle and place it on supports.

8. To unload the support, support the engine with a trolley jack; to distribute the load, place a wooden block between the jack head and the oil pan.

Caution: When jacking up the power unit, be careful not to load the exhaust system; if necessary, disconnect the exhaust pipe from the exhaust manifold (see Chapter 4).

9. Loosen the nut that secures the support to the bracket and remove it along with the washer. Remove the mounting bolt (see accompanying illustration).



10. Remove the bolts securing the support bracket to the transmission housing (see accompanying illustration) and remove it together with the pillow.





11. Check the condition of all support components. Replace worn or damaged parts.

12. Installation is performed in the reverse order of removal, tighten the mounting bolts and nut to the required force. Lower the car to the ground.

Rear support

13. The rear support mount is shown in the accompanying illustration. The procedure for replacing it is the same as for the front support (see above).



Left support

14. Set the parking brake, jack up the front of the vehicle, place it on supports and remove the crankcase guard.

15. Remove the battery, unscrew the mounting bolts and remove the battery support tray (see Chapter 5).

16. Install the support removal tool (see section 5) or support the transmission with a trolley jack, placing a wooden block between the jack head and the pan to distribute the load.



17. Remove the mounting bolts and remove the transmission mounting support bracket from the transmission (see accompanying illustration).



18. Remove the four TORX-head mounting bolts and remove the support, separating it from the body (see accompanying illustration).



19. If necessary, the support can be disassembled by unscrewing a single bolt threaded through the center of the cushion (see accompanying illustration).



20. Installation is carried out in the reverse order. Make sure that all fasteners are tightened to the required force.