crosmember replacement

Suspension related stuff goes in here.
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Tappy
Posts: 721
Joined: Wed Apr 02, 2008 8:22 pm
Your car is a: 124 spider 2000 1979
Location: Belgium ; Centre Of Europe

crosmember replacement

Post by Tappy »

Hi All ,

Its been a long time since i posted something on the board.
I have a big problem with my spider lately , the crossmember has been ripped thru the body and is also damaged
Now i sourced a used crosmember that i tend to pick up asap. Becouse my mechanic can't have the bridge occupied for several days i need to provide all parts before he will start welding and replacing the crosmember .

I believe replacement of the crosmember can be done supporting the grearbox and removal of the suspension ?
now the question , can someone tell me wich rubbers need to be replaced (if any) when disconnecting the lower suspension arm ? So i can order them on time ?

any tips or tricks are also welcome

thx in advance
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vandor
Posts: 3996
Joined: Sat May 23, 2009 1:23 pm
Your car is a: 1971 124 Spider
Location: Texas, USA

Re: crosmember replacement

Post by vandor »

>I believe replacement of the crosmember can be done supporting the grearbox and removal of the suspension ?

Yes, the engine can be supported by the bellhousing.

> can someone tell me wich rubbers need to be replaced (if any) when disconnecting the lower suspension arm ?

To replace the a-arm bushings will take even more work, as the arms have to be removed from the spindle and the bushings pressed out/in. This is a good time to do it, as you will save some work, but if time is an issue then you don't have to do it at this time.
I even heard one guy that replaced the crossmember with out removing the a-arms! He just left them hanging by the shocks. I am not sure that I'd be that brave.
You should replace the motor mounts if they are not in good shape, as they will have to be removed anyways.

BTW, inspect the used crossmember for cracks, and if possible seamweld it to reinforce it.
Csaba
'71 124 Spider, much modified
'17 124 Abarth, silver
http://italiancarclub.com/csaba/
Co-owner of the best dang Fiat parts place in town
User avatar
Tappy
Posts: 721
Joined: Wed Apr 02, 2008 8:22 pm
Your car is a: 124 spider 2000 1979
Location: Belgium ; Centre Of Europe

Re: crosmember replacement

Post by Tappy »

did work like a charm
crossmember replaced
FineItalianAutomobile TechnologyImage

pls don't see what i write , read what i mean
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