Control Arm replace procedure and that dreaded driver side bolt on DSG

[cuttyshark]

I have a busted bushing on the front driver side. I bought a new control arm and went to install it. I thought I was prepared but hit a snag with the front bolt that faces the transmission. I tried the trick with using some leverage to push the transmission forward (i bought new bolts for the dogbone) and I could NOT get it to move enough forward for that long bolt. I think that trick must work better on the non-DSG transmission. I have a DSG. There is not enough room in front of the transmission to keep it from crushing the radiator, nor can I get enough leverage with the amount of space I have under the car. My only option is to drop the subframe!

What is the procedure?

I have secured NEW subframe bolt kit. I have the two new control arms (going to do both sides while I have it off). New dogbone bolts. I have the tools and breaker bars and sockets.

My main concern is after I get the 6 or so subframe bolts undone does it just drop down? I see there is a steering box up in there? Does that stay up or does it need support? Do I need to disconnect the steering or sway bar? I can't find any information or manual on how to do this.

Thank you!

 

[turbodieseldyke]

You don't have to drop the whole subframe, just the driver side bolts. Then pry the arm down til the bolt head will clear the tranny. The sway bar gets disconnected, but not the steering.

 

[cuttyshark]

You don't have to drop the whole subframe, just the driver side bolts. Then pry the arm down til the bolt head will clear the tranny. The sway bar gets disconnected, but not the steering.

If I remove the driver side subframe bolts only will I have enough flex in the subframe to get that control arm bolt out? Wont I need to loosen the passenger side? is the subframe really that flimsy? Its the stamped steel one BTW not the heavy duty alumn one I have also seen pictures of. If that makes a diff

 

[turbodieseldyke]

I had to swap the left arm in a parking lot, and that's how i did it. Didn't touch the right side of the subframe. Mine is aluminum. I believe i also removed the big dogbone bolt, but that's as far "right" as i went (except maybe the skid "plate"). Also, it's a JSW, but i assume they're similar enough.

You were already planning to drop the whole subframe, right? If you can't get it to flex enough on the one side, just drop the whole thing.

 

[oilhammer]

I roll the trans forward/up, and drop the subframe down a bit. You can *just* get that bolt out that way.

 

[cuttyshark]

I roll the trans forward/up, and drop the subframe down a bit. You can *just* get that bolt out that way.

I am able to get it to move forward a bit, but I dont know how to move it up. im afraid if I jack it i will crush or break something, or smoosh my tranmission case.