Car Maintenance: Removing Mopar Car Transmission Crossmember

This guide will walk you through the process of removing a Mopar car transmission crossmember, a crucial step in various repairs and maintenance tasks․

Tools and Materials

• Jack and jack stands
• Socket wrench set
• Breaker bar
• Torque wrench
• Penetrating fluid (optional)
• Safety glasses
• Work gloves

Safety Precautions

• Always use jack stands to support the vehicle securely․
• Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack․
• Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from potential hazards․

Step-by-Step Instructions

1․ Prepare the Vehicle

1. Park the vehicle on a level surface and engage the parking brake․
2. Use the jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands․ Make sure the stands are placed on solid ground under the vehicle’s frame, not the body․
3. Remove the wheels on both sides of the vehicle․

2․ Access the Crossmember

1. Locate the transmission crossmember, which is typically located just below the transmission and above the rear axle․ It will be a metal bar with bolts attaching it to the frame․
2. If necessary, remove any heat shields or exhaust components that are obstructing access to the crossmember․

3․ Remove the Bolts

1. Use a socket wrench and breaker bar to loosen the bolts attaching the crossmember to the frame․ If the bolts are rusty or stubborn, apply penetrating fluid and allow it to soak in for a few minutes․
2. Once the bolts are loosened, remove them completely․

4․ Lower the Crossmember

1. Carefully lower the crossmember by gently pulling it down․
2. Be sure to support the transmission and other components with a jack or other suitable support to prevent damage during removal․

5․ Remove the Crossmember

1. Once the crossmember is lowered enough, you can remove it entirely․ Be mindful of the surrounding components and ensure there are no obstructions․
2. Inspect the crossmember for any signs of damage or wear․ If necessary, replace it with a new one․

Reinstallation

1. To reinstall the crossmember, reverse the removal steps․
2. Make sure to tighten the bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications using a torque wrench․
3. After reinstallation, double-check all connections and make sure the vehicle is securely supported on jack stands․

Conclusion

Removing a Mopar car transmission crossmember is a relatively straightforward task that can be accomplished with the right tools and some basic mechanical skills․ By following these steps carefully, you can safely remove the crossmember and perform necessary repairs or maintenance․