Frame Members-Rear Frame Section: Removal
- Restore the vehicle to manufacturer's dimensions. Refer to: BODY DIMENSIONS AND BODY CONSTRUCTION .
- Remove the following items:
- Refer to: Rear Bumper .
- Refer to: Muffler Inlet Pipe - 2.3L EcoBoost (199kW/270PS). Refer to: Muffler - 2.7L EcoBoost (238kW/324PS).
- Refer to: Lower Arm - Rear Suspension.
- Refer to: Panhard Rod - Rear Suspension.
- Refer to: Shock Absorber and Spring Assembly - Rear Suspension.
- Refer to: Upper Arm - Rear Suspension.
- Refer to: Rear Driveshaft .
- Refer to: Axle Assembly - Rear Drive Axle/Differential.
- Refer to: Trailer Hitch .
- Unbolt the C-pillar and D-pillar body mount bolts and raise or remove the body if required. Refer to: Frame and Body Mounting .
- Anchor the vehicle to a frame rack following the equipment manufacturer's instructions.
- Disconnect and remove any remaining wiring, lines, and related fittings from the frame section.NOTE: The Rear 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.
- Rear frame section overview.
- Grind through the original welded joints retaining the rearward 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
- With the help of an assistant, remove the complete rear frame section.
- Using a wire brush or sandpaper, remove the e-coat paint from the existing frame near the edges to be welded on the inner and outer surfaces within approximately 15 mm (0.5 in.) of the repair joint.