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| Rusted suspension parts (Page 1/3) |
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naughtrick
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OCT 08, 03:51 PM
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I'm a newbie Fiero owner with a 85 2m6, in need of help. I'm trying to replace worn suspension parts, but now I think I'm in over my head. I would like to remove the crossmember, but as shown in these pics, there is a serious rust issue.
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naughtrick
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OCT 08, 04:12 PM
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Sorry, I'm having computer problems too. I hope the pics loaded.
The bolts securing the crossmember to the frame are badly rusted. Another Fiero owner fabricated replacement brackets, but I need to get the old ones off.
Any help would be appreciated.[This message has been edited by naughtrick (edited 10-08-2020).]
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naughtrick
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OCT 08, 04:14 PM
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Sorry again for the duplicate pics.
Rick
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Patrick
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OCT 08, 04:39 PM
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| quote | Originally posted by naughtrick:
I'm trying to replace worn suspension parts, but now I think I'm in over my head.
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You might have a parts car there. In other words, rust may have destroyed the integrity of the frame. Before you put too much time/money into this Fiero, at least first check your rear upper frame rails.
And just so you know... instead of posting multiple times (due to mistakes), you could simply have edited your first post.[This message has been edited by Patrick (edited 10-08-2020).]
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naughtrick
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OCT 08, 06:44 PM
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Thanks Patrick, the duplicate photos are gone.
I checked the whole car for rust, the front suspension is the only issue found.
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Patrick
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OCT 08, 07:18 PM
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| quote | Originally posted by naughtrick:
I checked the whole car for rust, the front suspension is the only issue found.
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It's very surprising that a Fiero with such bad corrosion up front doesn't have rust in the usual trouble spot, the rear upper frame rails. 
Okay, well hopefully someone can offer you advice on dealing with what you've pointed out.
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pmbrunelle
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OCT 08, 07:28 PM
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The upper reinforcing brackets unscrew from the car, so they can be replaced whole:
http://www.fiero.nl/forum/F.../HTML/135458.html#p7
Fiero Store used to sell these (as they rust faster than the rest of the suspension), but they don't appear to be for sale anymore.
You can try to get used ones (either stock Fiero, or Fiero Store), or fabricate new ones from flat stock. That area collects a bunch of dirt+water, so these brackets should be sandblasted + POR-15ed. Then spray anti-rust oil where you can't reach with paint.
The actual crossmember is a bigger item; suggest sandblasting and welding patches as required.
You may want to get these items from a parts car, so you can take your time restoring these parts on the side, without having to take your running Fiero out of service immediately.
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naughtrick
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OCT 08, 08:07 PM
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Thanks PM, I have the replacement brackets, they were made a by local Fiero owner who I believe is a member of this forum.
The crossmember seems to be in fair condition, from what I can see. My issue right now is removing the old brackets. I think I'll have to try welding nuts onto the bolts to remove them. I've already removed numerous parts for sandblasting and painting, so the car is out of service.
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naughtrick
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OCT 14, 02:53 PM
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As a followup to this, the crossmember is now on the bench. We had to weld nuts onto the rusted bolts to remove them, and all the control arm bolts had to be cut off. The crossmember has surface rust only, so I can start replacing parts now. Thanks to all for your help
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pmbrunelle
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OCT 14, 07:45 PM
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