Frame Members-Front Frame Section: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2019 Ford F-550 Super Duty, 2019 Ford F-450 Super Duty, 2019 Ford F-350 Super Duty, and 2019 Ford F-250 Super Duty. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: The following procedure provides steps to replace the frame section at the center rail joint.

NOTE: All body alignment measurements are carried out with the vehicle de-trimmed. Measurements are made metal to metal, on center, unless otherwise specified.

Restore the vehicle to manufacturer's dimensions. Refer to: Body and Frame .
Front frame section overview.

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Remove the following items:
1. Remove the front bumper. Refer to: Front Bumper .
2. Remove the fenders. Refer to: Fender .
3. Remove the radiator grille. Refer to: Radiator Grille .
4. Remove the headlamps. Refer to: Headlamp Assembly .
5. Remove the engine mount retaining bolts and loosen the exhaust manifold to head pipe connections. Disconnect the exhaust system from the engine as equipped. Refer to: Dual Catalytic Converter Y-Pipe . Refer to: Catalytic Converter . Refer to: Exhaust Downpipe .
6. Loosen the radiator shroud retainer bolts. Refer to: Cooling Fan Shroud . Refer to: Cooling Fan Shroud . Refer to: Cooling Fan Upper Shroud .
Anchor the vehicle to a frame rack following the equipment manufacturer's instructions.
Remove the front wheels. Refer to: Wheel and Tire - Vehicles With: Single Rear Wheels . Refer to: Wheel and Tire - Vehicles With: Dual Rear Wheels .
NOTE: All body alignment measurements are carried out with the vehicle de-trimmed. Measurements are made metal to metal, on center, unless otherwise specified.

Perform detailed measurement of the frame and perform any required pulling operations. Refer to: Body and Frame .
Remove the following items:
1. Remove the transmission support crossmember. Refer to: Transmission Support Crossmember .
2. If equipped, remove the front driveshaft. Refer to: Front Driveshaft .
3. If equipped, remove the axle shafts. Refer to: Axle Shaft . Refer to: Axle Shaft .
4. Remove the spring and shock assembly. Refer to: Spring - F-250/F-350 . Refer to: Spring .
5. Remove the radius arm, if equipped with 2WD. Refer to: Radius Arm - F-250/F-350 . Refer to: Radius Arm - F-450/F-550 .
6. Remove the radius arm, if equipped with 4WD. Refer to: Radius Arm .
7. Remove the steering gear. Refer to: Steering Gear .
8. Raise and support the engine and transmission assembly. Refer to: Engine Mount LH . Refer to: Engine Mount RH .
9. Unbolt the Front End Sheet Metal (FESM) body mount bolts. Refer to: Frame and Body Mounting .
Using the frame rack towers and light tension, support the front radiator support of the vehicle by raising it slightly above the frame rail mounts.
Disconnect and remove any remaining wiring, lines, and related fittings from the frame section.
NOTE: The front frame section on this vehicle is retained by welded lap joints. The frame section will be removed and installed by grinding of the original welded joints, followed by welding of the new section into position.
Grind through the original welded joints retaining the forward frame section to the center section. Be careful not to cut into the center side rail since it will be reused.
- Using a chisel gun with a sharp 25.4 mm (1 inch) wide wedge chisel, separate the ground area of the joints. Use the General Equipment: Grinder
Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY
With the help of an assistant, remove the complete front frame section.

Courtesy of FORD MOTOR COMPANY