300TE subframe will not lower enough

[professor]

It will not lower enough on the side where I took out the hexagon bolts that hold the rubber mounts in place. I am trying to replace the mounts and the tech manual says that I should lower one side at a time.

The front mount area clears just a little while the back hardly moved down. I don't have enough clearance to remove them with my press tools (I have the correct tools for this job).

It's been suggested that I lower the whole subframe but I really don't want to open a can of worms.

[daddi]

I loosen the aft part of the propshaft and lower the exhaust and then lower both front sides at the same time. I'm down to an hour replacing both front mounts without the special tools.

[professor]

Thanks daddi,
Any issues with the fuel line being pinched using this procedure?

[daddi]

Originally Posted by professor

Thanks daddi,
Any issues with the fuel line being pinched using this procedure?

No.

[professor]

What if I don't remove the rear coupling bolts, would the subframe still move down low enough if I simply remove the front mounts bolts?

[daddi]

Originally Posted by professor

What if I don't remove the rear coupling bolts, would the subframe still move down low enough if I simply remove the front mounts bolts?

No, the idea is that you want to get some tools in to clean the seats for the new mount or you will never be able to get them seated.

[professor]

By the way, if the propshaft is disconnected wouldn't it make sense to just go ahead and lower the whole subframe?