Rear lower suspension mount bent - how to fix?

[Giles]

So my NA mx5 failed it's warrant. The tricky thing that needs fixing is the point where the rear-most bush on the rear lower suspension arm is mounted. This mounting point has suffered some kind of impact and is bent in a relatively minor way(the suspension still works). So, just to clarify, the rear-most point where the rear A-arm is attached, is slightly bent.

Questions:
Can this be fixed by just bending it back in to shape or does the subframe need to be replaced?
Has anyone had this problem before and solved it? If so, how?
Is it difficult to replace the rear subframe (I've replaced the shocks and springs before, so I'm not totally mechanically incompetent)?


Thanks (in advance).

[Euen]

Giles, the first thing I would do is get an opinion from a reputable panel beater. If that point is bent, it may also mean there is damage elsewhere. eg, if the mount has bent then it may be that the arm is bent as well.

If it can't be straightened, you should be able to find a second hand one that can be swapped in. Just avoid one that comes from a car damaged in the rear.

Replacement of the rear sub-frame can be done in a home garage but it does involve quite a bit of work. To do it safely you will need 4 axle stands and a good trolley jack, plus plenty of time. You need to get the car quite high so that the sub-frame assembly can slide out from underneath. Ideally there should be 2 people there at the time you actually drop it out.

I would recommend a workshop manual as well. The Haynes manual does not cover it however if you can find a copy of the Maita Entusiast Manual by Rod Grainger it is covered in the section about removing the fuel tank.

Good luck
E

[SLYDIT]

there should be loads of rear subframes around..mostly frontal parts are hard to find for obvious reasons

[sprsta]

hi not sure where you are but there is an excelent panelbeater in the classified section (auckland)

come on in and we could have a look if you like but it sounds to me like replacing the sub frame would be the best option (make sure you get a wheel alignment after)

[Giles]

Well, I took the car to a panelbeater and he reckons that it will just take a minor bit of bending it back in to shape. Hopefully that turns out to be true when I turn it over to him.
Thanks for all the suggestions.

[mazline]

If it's too far gone we can help with a subframe.

[Giles]

If it's too far gone we can help with a subframe.

Thanks. Will keep that in mind. I'm pretty convinced it's good though.

[Giles]

Yep, the panelbeater fixed it easily.

[mazline]

Good result for you then