'69 Differential Crossmember Removal?

[Bob B.]

Hi all,


My '69 chassis is down to the frame and ready to take the frame for sandblasting and powder coating. But there is a removable crossmember that part of the differential bolts to for which I need directions for removal. It is the cross piece closest to the bottom in the pic and it has two large rubber bushings between it and the frame. Maybe it snaps on or maybe I need some WD, but I wanted to check.

(1) How do I get this piece off?

Also, there are body mount shims, rear trailing arm shims and front alignment shims. I am recording what went where. With the body mount shims, I'll put them back as they were.

(2) But for the others, do I put the shims back as they were or is new shimming from scratch necessary?

See everyone at KC!

Bob

[Alan S.]

Re: '69 Differential Crossmember Removal?

Hi Bob,
The large rubber bushings are often 'frozen' in position.
Sometimes a flood of something like WD40 helps release them while using a pry-bar.
But sometimes it takes a 4' long pry-bar. As you can image when using a bar that long when the member releases all hell breaks loose.
It helps to put the bolts back in each side so that they catch the member as it finally comes loose.
Good Luck!
Regards,
Alan

[Edward J.]

Re: '69 Differential Crossmember Removal?

Bob, I have pulled quite a few frozen rear diff cross members down and its simply amazing that something like that pieces being so stuck to the frames. But as Alan says a very big pry bar will work, once its broke free its will slam onto the ground. the bolts are short so if you put them in it will likely not come off. unless you have some longer bolts to use. You should be able to use the same sized new shims at the frame and suspension front and rear, the alignment should still be done after the chassis is re-assy'd.At least you'll be close with the alignment and should be able to drive to get suspension alignment.