9 replies to this topic

[Fossy313]

Hi guys I'm looking at replacing the steering rack and normally for any of my mini work I jack off the subframe but I can't in this being as though I have to lower the SF to get the rack in.

Where the hell do I jack, my floor has been weakened in the last through in appropriate jacking (previous owner) and I'm a bit scared of where to jack, I guess its a case of jacking with a long bit of wood to spread the weight, however with this I'm planning on using axle stands and want to know what thickness and what wood to allow me the maximum movement under the car. (Pictures would be a godsend)

Cheers

Craig

[Tamworthbay]

Jack up on the subframe, then support the weight of the car on a big piece of timber (scaffold board is ideal) across the floor with an axle stand at each end. Make sure its far enough back to get the rear front subframe mounts off.

[cal844]

Has your floor been replaced?? If not id just lift the shell over the subby

[alex-95]

Like above put plank of wood across the floor, watch out for the brake pipes and that though.

[Jordie]

Jack up on the subframe, then support the weight of the car on a big piece of timber (scaffold board is ideal) across the floor with an axle stand at each end. Make sure its far enough back to get the rear front subframe mounts off.

 

As above. Then use trolley jack(s) to support the subframe whilst you undo the bolts and mounts. Then lower down using the jacks to give room to get the steering rack out.

[Fossy313]

Cheers guys much appreciated, so it doesn't actually matter where I put the peace of wood across the floor? Just staying clear of the brake lines etc and enough room to get the subframe down?

[Jordie]

I used abit of wood with some cut outs to clear the battery cable, brake pipe and fuel pipe. I used it quite far forward as there seems to be more rigidity there. Depends on the wood, a large surface area will help spread the weight and prevent any damage to the floor.

 

You only need the subframe down a couple of inches. Dont forget to undo the engine steadies to bulkhead and possibly the clutch slave to prevent the hose stretching.

[Fossy313]

Ok mate much appreciated for the help, as you can gather, first time :), but you have to start somewhere!

[tiger99]

Keep the wood as far forward as possible. The joint between toeboard and floor is very stiff. If it is a rubber mounted subframe (even if you have fitted a solid mount kit, which I recommend) the plank will still clear the subframe mounts. Not so easy with an original solid mounted subframe, you have to go slightly further back.

 

You will want to remove the exhaust first, as it will foul your piece of wood.

[Fossy313]

Cheers tiger, I was planning on removing the exhaust anyway :)