Subframe dimensions

[petervdvelde]

Hello,

I started the restoration on my P5B Coupe and have a spare subframe with all suspesion, wheel and brake components and want to get this powdercoated. I can still use my car in this way.
I checked the subframe dimensions with the dimensions in the manual and found some differences. The manual only shows the P5 subframe. The spare frame stayed in an open field for some time and has some dents which should be reparabel.
Checking the frame i found that the left enginemount sits approx 5mm higher and 5 mm more backwards then the rh enginemount. I assume and see that the rh enginemount is bended a little which explains the 5mm less backwards. The hight difference i cannot explain but i assume this will not cause much problems.
Can somebody confirm that there should be no difference in the horizontal position of the enginemount.
Also the manual says the dimension L should be 1783mm but i only measure on both sides 1715mm. Anybody noticed this?
I attached the subframe drawing and some pictures.
Thanks in advance
Regards
Peter
i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd310/petervdvelde/2007_0731Image0039.jpg
i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd310/petervdvelde/2007_0731Image0042.jpg
i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd310/petervdvelde/chassisp5b-adj2049.jpg

[Phil Nottingham]

It's not something I ever measured - however I have an engine less P5B standing outside (still) so when it light tomorrow I will check this.

The front end often gets damaged in shunts - it can spread back to the rear cross member mounts if these are rust weakened

[petervdvelde]

Phil,

I was also planning to "open" the subframe in several places to check for rust.
This afternoon i cut out a part the front frame to repair it and the inner space looks good.
I did it with a dremel to get a nice cut and will straighten the piece which is cut out and then weld it in again. See the pictures.
i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd310/petervdvelde/2007_0731Image0065.jpg
i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd310/petervdvelde/2007_0731Image0068.jpg

Have to wait for the weekend as it needs a lot of "hammerforce" and with kits sleeping.
Was lucky that my wife was out so i could grind it out....

Regards
Peter

[Phil Nottingham]

Interesting - I have never inside a relatively rustless one. How many Dremel discs did you use!!

Ps Forgot to take the measurements! Will try to remember tomorrow

[petervdvelde]

Phil,

I was also surprised only finding surface rust inside the sub frame a it lay in an open field more or less covered by plants
I used approx 15 discs but only half of them were fully used. The other half broke before i could fully use them. However its amazing what one can dot with such a fragile disc and i really like these Dremels

You would really help me with the measurement but it could wait untill the weekend.
Regards
Peter

[Phil Nottingham]

I have carefully measured the mounts on mine from a variety of positions and conclude that they are meant to the same height and distance. It may be that your subframe is slightly twisted. Whether this is in tolerance I am not sure though but 5mm in such a component may not be a real problem

[petervdvelde]

Hello Phil,

Thanks for checking. I think hte difference in height is not a problem. The difference in horizontal position is caused by the actual motor mount which is welded on the tube and this can be put at the right dimension rather easy.
Regards
Peter