Removal and installation the front subframe (Opel Vectra C)

1. The general view of the front subframe of the front suspension with the units and assemblies installed on it is shown in Illustration 7.1a.



To remove the subframe, you will need a hydraulic jack with sufficient stroke and special devices KM-904 and KM-6312 with axles for centering the subframe during installation (see illustration 7.1b).



2. Place the front wheels of the vehicle in a straight-ahead position, remove the key from the ignition and lock the steering wheel.



3. Using wire, secure the cooling system radiator on both sides to the front of the engine compartment and install and secure the special device MKM-883-1 (see accompanying illustration) with a set of rigging equipment for hanging the engine. Before use, carefully read the operating instructions for the kit.

Note: Alternatively, any winch type lifting device can be used.

4. Remove both front wheels.

5. Remove the front bumper cover (see Chapter 11).

6. Remove the exhaust system (see Chapter 4).

7. Remove the bolt and disconnect the intermediate steering shaft from the steering gear.

8. Disconnect the front support and the rear engine support bracket from the subframe.

9. Disconnect the tie rod ends (see Section 15) and ball (outer) bearings of the control arms from the steering knuckle.

Note: It is not necessary to disconnect the inner arm bearings.

10. Loosen the mounting nut and disconnect the lower ends of the vertical stabilizer bar links from the stabilizer bar (see accompanying illustration).





11. Disconnect the power steering wiring connectors, release the wiring harnesses from the holders on the subframe and move them to the side. On models equipped with xenon headlights, remove the headlight range adjustment sensor from the left control lever (see Section 6).

12. Support the subframe with a trolley jack - to distribute the load, place a special device on the jack head (see illustration 7.1b) if it is absent, you can put suitable wooden blocks underneath.

13. Unscrew 3 bolts and remove the triangular reinforcements of the rear subframe holder (see accompanying illustration). Unscrew the front subframe mounting bolts. Install the KM-6312-20 device on the power steering assembly mounting bracket.





14. Remove the 2 mounting bolts and detach the power steering assembly from the body.

15. Lower the subframe using a jack. If the subframe is to be replaced, reinstall all units and components (see illustration 7.1a) old subframe to a new one.

If necessary, replace the elements installed on the subframe.

16. Before lifting the subframe, move the centering axes of the KM-6312 device (see illustration 7.1b) to the upper position and secure with cotter pins. Installation is performed in the reverse order of dismantling the components. Only new bolts should be used to secure the subframe. Tighten all fasteners to the required torque.