Installation Procedure
- If you are replacing the frame, perform the following steps:
- Install the lower control arms to the frame. Refer to Lower Control Arm Replacement in Front Suspension.
- Install the frame insulators to the frame. Refer to Frame Cushion or Insulator Replacement - Front .
- Position the transaxle table with the frame under the vehicle.
- Lower the vehicle until the frame is close to the vehicle.
- Adjust the utility straps as necessary in order to align the powertrain mounts with the frame.
- Inserting two 19 mm (0.75 in) diameter X 203 mm (8.0 in) long guide pins or drill bits into the frame right side alignment holes in order to align the frame.
- Install the frame front bolts (2).
Tighten: Tighten the bolts to 130 N.m (96 lb ft).
- Install the frame straps (5) and bolts (3).
Tighten: Tighten the bolts to 50 N.m (37 lb ft).
- Install the frame rear bolts (4).
Tighten: Tighten the bolts to 240 N.m (177 lb ft).
- Remove the alignment pins from the frame.
- Install the transaxle mount nuts. Refer to Automatic Transmission Mount Replacement in Automatic Transaxle - 4T65-E.
- Install the engine mount nuts. Refer to Engine Mount Replacement - Right in Engine Mechanical - 3.5L.
- Install the wheel speed sensor wiring harnesses to the lower control arms.
- Connect the wheel speed sensor electrical connectors.
- Install the lower ball joints to the steering knuckles. Refer to Steering Knuckle Replacement in Front Suspension.
- Install the power steering cooler pipe to the frame. Refer to Power Steering Cooler Pipe/Hose Replacement in Power Steering System.
- Install the front engine splash shield. Refer to Splash Shield Replacement - Engine in Body Front End.
- Install the power steering gear to the frame. Refer to Power Steering Gear Replacement in Power Steering System.
- Install the power steering gear bolts. Refer to Power Steering Gear Replacement in Power Steering System.
- Install the power steering gear heat shield. Refer to Power Steering Gear Heat Shield Replacement in Power Steering System.
- Install the propeller shaft, if equipped with AWD. Refer to Propeller Shaft Replacement in Propeller Shaft.
- Install the catalytic converter pipe, if equipped with AWD. Refer to CATALYTIC CONVERTER REPLACEMENT in Engine Exhaust.
- Install the stabilizer shaft. Refer to Stabilizer Shaft Replacement (FWD) or Stabilizer Shaft Replacement (AWD) in Front Suspension.
- Install both tie rod ends to the steering knuckles. Refer to Steering Knuckle Replacement in Front Suspension.
- Install the front fender liner. Refer to Wheelhouse Liner Replacement - Front in Exterior Trim.
- Install the front tires and wheels. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
- Lower the vehicle.
- Remove the engine support fixture. Refer to Engine Support Fixture in Engine Mechanical - 3.5L.
- Inspect the front wheel alignment and adjust the toe angle if necessary. Refer to Measuring Wheel Alignment in Wheel Alignment.
IMPORTANT:
Ensure that the power steering cooler line does not become trapped by the engine mount during this step.
IMPORTANT:
Ensure that the alignment pins remain installed during the frame installation.
NOTE:
Refer to Fastener Notice
in Cautions and Notices.