front end problems

[JAMAS]

I received the nuts and bolts that I ordered from Merlin. I went to install them last night and quickly realized that I need to drop the cross member in order to even screw that bolt into the transfer case. I also couldn't tell if the mount was bad (like in Ldub's case HERE). So I think I am going to have to bite the bullet and have my local isuzu shop do it for me ($127.50 plus parts). Since they are dropping the cross member, I am going to purchase a new mount (from Merlin) and have them install that too. Is there anything else I should have them do since they are already going to have the cross member unbolted. I can't think of anything, but figured I would ask. I will most likely have them replace the crossmember bolts (crossmember to frame) for good measure.

[etlsport]

could have them drop the transmission pan and replace the filter

[Ldub]

I received the nuts and bolts that I ordered from Merlin. I went to install them last night and quickly realized that I need to drop the cross member in order to even screw that bolt into the transfer case. I also couldn't tell if the mount was bad (like in Ldub's case HERE). So I think I am going to have to bite the bullet and have my local isuzu shop do it for me ($127.50 plus parts). Since they are dropping the cross member, I am going to purchase a new mount (from Merlin) and have them install that too. Is there anything else I should have them do since they are already going to have the cross member unbolted. I can't think of anything, but figured I would ask. I will most likely have them replace the crossmember bolts (crossmember to frame) for good measure.

could have them drop the transmission pan and replace the filter

I agree with Eric, do the tranny filter...

Also, Ive had my cross member off 3-4 times, & never replaced the bolts...

Just clean em up good & give em' a new application of loc-tite.

[JAMAS]

I called to see what my added cost would be to have the transmission filter replaced......$350(total parts and labor with new transmission mount).

They basically broke it down like a transmission service, then subtracted the cost to replace the mount. So I get a tranny service with a free trans mount installation. The $150 its gonna cost me to purchase and install the new mount was pricey enough for now. Since the cost is so low on the bolts, I went ahead and ordered new bolts all around. Cross member to frame, heat shield to cross member, mount to cross member, and mount to tranny.


Also.....should I use Red or Blue Loc-Tite for the bolts?
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This is from an Isuzu dealer, service shop that I have dealt with (and loved) since I got my VX. So its really the only place I want to have anything done.
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[nfpgasmask]

If you have a couple jack stands and a decent jack (floor jack preferably) doing all this work yourself really isn't too bad. I've done my tranny fluid/filter 3 times. It's messy but it really isn't hard.

For that amount of money (maybe even less) you could buy all the tools and supplies you need to gitterdun on yer own.

Bart

[JAMAS]

If you have a couple jack stands and a decent jack (floor jack preferably) doing all this work yourself really isn't too bad. I've done my tranny fluid/filter 3 times. It's messy but it really isn't hard.

For that amount of money (maybe even less) you could buy all the tools and supplies you need to gitterdun on yer own.

Bart

I would LOVE to be able to do that. However, I dont have the time, energy, or resources at the moment. With work, my 3 month old son, and a bajillion other things piling up, I am better off just paying someone to do the work.

I definitely enjoy any time that I get to work on the vehicross. I just haven't had time. Maybe I can retire at age 30.

[nfpgasmask]

I would LOVE to be able to do that. However, I dont have the time, energy, or resources at the moment. With work, my 3 month old son, and a bajillion other things piling up, I am better off just paying someone to do the work.

I definitely enjoy any time that I get to work on the vehicross. I just haven't had time. Maybe I can retire at age 30.

Oh I understand completely! In my case though, my cars are my children!

I've been spending countless hours on my Trooper, learning tons, and keeping my fingernails dirty.

Bart