Differential cross member

[Bob I.]

Looking for advice, on installing the cross member, to the frame. The rubber bushings are new.

Bob

[Rich P.]

Re: Differential cross member

Bob,

I usually have the rear bolted into place before installation even on a bare frame. (you obviously have to do this when the body is installed). I place the crossmsmber and rear on a floor jack, roll it under the car and grease up the sombrero and bushing to help them slide into place. next I jack up on the assembly and try to catch the bolts (Make sure you use grade 8's for this application). If I find that the bolt wont go in I very carefully tap the holes out. I also do this prior to the installation but sometimes the hole in the bushing just does not quite line up with the threads in the frame and tapping them helps. In extreame cases of non hole alignment you may have to ream the hole or holes in the new bushings.

Hope ths helps, Rich

[Joe L.]

Re: Differential cross member

Bob,

I usually have the rear bolted into place before installation even on a bare frame. (you obviously have to do this when the body is installed). I place the crossmsmber and rear on a floor jack, roll it under the car and grease up the sombrero and bushing to help them slide into place. next I jack up on the assembly and try to catch the bolts (Make sure you use grade 8's for this application). If I find that the bolt wont go in I very carefully tap the holes out. I also do this prior to the installation but sometimes the hole in the bushing just does not quite line up with the threads in the frame and tapping them helps. In extreame cases of non hole alignment you may have to ream the hole or holes in the new bushings.

Hope ths helps, Rich

Rich and Bob------


When applying grease to the cushions and/or sombrero brackets I recommend only SILICONE grease and only a very thin film of it. Using too much can actually make it MORE difficult to remove when the time comes.

[John H.]

Re: Differential cross member

I apply anti-seize to the inside of the upper cup in the bushing in case it ever has to come off again.