How to Remove a Mopar Car Transmission Crossmember
Introduction
A transmission crossmember is a structural component that supports the transmission and helps to keep it in place. It is typically made of metal and is bolted to the frame of the vehicle. Over time, the crossmember can become damaged or worn, which can lead to problems with the transmission. If you suspect that your Mopar car’s transmission crossmember is damaged, it is important to have it inspected and repaired as soon as possible.
Tools and Materials
Socket wrench
Ratchet
Torx bits
Breaker bar
Jack stands
Safety glasses
Safety Precautions
Always wear safety glasses when working on your vehicle.
Park your car on a flat, stable surface.
Engage the parking brake.
Allow the engine to cool before starting any work.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Disconnect the Battery
Before you begin, disconnect the negative terminal of the battery. This will prevent any electrical shorts from occurring.
2. Raise the Vehicle
Use a jack to raise the front of the vehicle and support it with jack stands. Make sure the vehicle is stable before proceeding.
3. Remove the Exhaust
The exhaust system may need to be removed to access the crossmember. If so, loosen the exhaust bolts and remove the exhaust from the vehicle.
4. Remove the Driveshaft
The driveshaft connects the transmission to the rear axle. It must be removed to access the crossmember. To remove the driveshaft, follow these steps:
Support the driveshaft with a jack.
Unbolt the driveshaft from the transmission.
Unbolt the driveshaft from the rear axle.
Remove the driveshaft from the vehicle.
5. Remove the Crossmember Bolts
The crossmember is bolted to the frame of the vehicle. Locate the bolts that are holding the crossmember in place and remove them.
6. Lower the Crossmember
Once the bolts have been removed, the crossmember can be lowered from the vehicle. Be careful not to drop the crossmember.
7. Inspect the Crossmember
Once the crossmember has been removed, inspect it for any damage. If the crossmember is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
8. Reinstall the Crossmember
If the crossmember is not damaged, it can be reinstalled. To reinstall the crossmember, follow these steps:
Lift the crossmember into place.
Insert the bolts into the holes in the frame.
Tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
9. Reinstall the Driveshaft
To reinstall the driveshaft, follow these steps:
Insert the driveshaft into the transmission.
Bolt the driveshaft to the transmission.
Insert the driveshaft into the rear axle.
Bolt the driveshaft to the rear axle.
10. Reinstall the Exhaust
If the exhaust system was removed, reinstall it by following these steps:
Insert the exhaust into the exhaust manifold.
Bolt the exhaust to the exhaust manifold.
Insert the exhaust into the muffler.
Bolt the exhaust to the muffler.
11. Reconnect the Battery
Reconnect the negative terminal of the battery.
12. Lower the Vehicle
Lower the vehicle to the ground and remove the jack stands.
Conclusion
Removing a Mopar car transmission crossmember is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. However, it is important to take safety precautions and to follow the instructions carefully. If you are not comfortable performing this task, it is best to have it done by a qualified mechanic.
