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Sub-frame spacers
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Author:  Humphrey78 [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 9:44 am ]
Post subject:  Sub-frame spacers

We seem to have made a mistake recently when fitting the front sub frame onto the body, we didn't put the 5mm spacers between the sub frame and the body.

It is a 1970 Van and has dry suspension and the sub frame is correct for the car.

Before we get too far ahead of ourselves what are the possible issues this can cause??

Author:  simon k [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 12:21 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

I reckon a fair bit of damage is possible - imagine hitting a hard bump, the top of the subframe isn't secure & square against the crossmember, so the shock will pass to the rear and front subframe mounts. The front mount is the most likely to cause damage - you might even crease mudguards

Author:  winabbey [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 12:31 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

Are you talking about the spacer at the top of the tower (#17 below) or at the leading edge of the sub-frame (#6 below)?

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Author:  Humphrey78 [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 1:31 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

It is number 17 on the front sub frame.

Author:  peterb [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 4:05 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

Isn't it to stop spigots punching up into body? Can't you just loosen the frame bolt and fit them after removing studs?"

Author:  Jonnoh [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 4:23 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

I'm a bit bemused by this as my mini did not have any spacers fitted, anywhere....

OK let me rephrase this. My mini had a wet subframe.

I am changing over to dry, does this mean I need to install these spacers if I'm using a dry subframe?

Author:  drmini in aust [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 4:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

Wet subframe has no spacers, dry one does. Not sure if there is a height difference between the two.
Also, wet ones I've seen all have bolts in top, I think many/most dry ones have studs and nuts.

Author:  Jonnoh [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 4:56 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

OK Dr mini. If that's the case do you recommend I use studs instead? I can not think of a reason why there is this difference.

Author:  drmini in aust [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 5:31 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

I like bolts, because if dropping the rear of the subframe to get the rack out you don't bend the studs.
As for why they had 2 systems I don't know.

Author:  simon k [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 6:15 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

drmini in aust wrote:
I like bolts, because if dropping the rear of the subframe to get the rack out you don't bend the studs.
As for why they had 2 systems I don't know.


if I remember correctly, the threads in the subframe are different sizes - dry subframes have 3/8 threads, hydro have 5/16". The studs for dry are stepped to a 5/16" nut at the top

Author:  drmini in aust [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 6:57 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

Above is true.
Studs are easier to align. The captive nuts in a wet subframe can float. I had to use an extended tap once to get the 4th bolt to start.

Author:  John Smidt [ Fri Dec 23, 2016 7:38 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

simon k wrote:
drmini in aust wrote:
I like bolts, because if dropping the rear of the subframe to get the rack out you don't bend the studs.
As for why they had 2 systems I don't know.


if I remember correctly, the threads in the subframe are different sizes - dry subframes have 3/8 threads, hydro have 5/16". The studs for dry are stepped to a 5/16" nut at the top


You can use the studs in a wet subframe by turning them up side down

Author:  Humphrey78 [ Sat Dec 24, 2016 5:07 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

I have studs so imagine it's more work as I will need to lower the subframe quite a bit before being able to access the space to pop the spacers back in.

So is the general consensus do it now and avoid any future issues?

Author:  Stev0 [ Sat Dec 24, 2016 5:37 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

Humphrey78 wrote:
I have studs so imagine it's more work as I will need to lower the subframe quite a bit before being able to access the space to pop the spacers back in.

So is the general consensus do it now and avoid any future issues?


Don't know about other people but I think you should add the spacer..
I wonder if it would be worthwhile trying to unscrew the stud, however remote that chance is..

Author:  winabbey [ Sat Dec 24, 2016 5:54 pm ]
Post subject:  Re: Sub-frame spacers

Humphrey78 wrote:
I have studs so imagine it's more work as I will need to lower the subframe quite a bit before being able to access the space to pop the spacers back in.

Could you slot the spacer holes so you can slide it in sideways once there's enough room?

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