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Frame and Underbody Chevrolet Malibu VII

Frames, Subframes & Crossmembers 7 illustrations ~2424 words

Fastener Tightening Specifications

ApplicationSpecification
MetricEnglish
Driveline Vibration Dampener Nut70 N.m52 lb ft
Frame Support to Body Bolts100 N.m74 lb ft
Frame to Body Bolts
First Pass100 N.m74 lb ft
Final Pass+ 90°
Frame to Mount Bolts50 N.m37 lb ft
Intermediate Steering Shaft Pinch Bolt49 N.m36 lb ft
Radiator Support Bracket Bolts60 N.m44 lb ft
Transmission Mount Through Bolt90 N.m66 lb ft

Special Tools

J 39580 Engine Support Stand. See Special Tools .

Removal Procedure

  1. Install the engine support fixture. Refer to «Engine Support Fixture»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-35l-repair-instructions-on-vehicle__engine-support-fixture) .
  2. Support the radiator and condenser from above.
  3. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .
  4. Remove the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-wheels) .
  5. Remove the front fender liner. Refer to «Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  6. Remove the engine splash shield. Refer to «Radiator Air Lower Baffle and Deflector Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/cooling-system-mechanical/#engine-cooling-system) .
  7. Remove the lower ball joints from the steering knuckles. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  8. Remove the tie rod ends from the steering knuckles.
  9. Remove both stabilizer links from the stabilizer bar. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  10. Remove the power steering gear mounting bolts and secure the gear out of the way using mechanic's wire or equivalent, being sure not to overextend the intermediate shaft. Refer to «Steering Gear Replacement (Electronic Power Steering)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) or «Steering Gear Replacement (Hydraulic Power Steering LZ4)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  11. Remove the engine mount fasteners from the frame. Refer to «Engine Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-35l-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  12. Remove the front transmission mount bolt from the frame. Refer to «Transmission Front Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-4t45-e-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  13. Remove the left transmission mount fasteners from the frame. Refer to «Transmission Mount Replacement - Left Side (3.5 (LZ4) With MN5)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-4t45-e-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  14. Remove the rear transmission mount bracket fasteners from the frame. Refer to «Transmission Rear Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-4t45-e-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  15. Remove the brake lines from the retainers on the frame.
  16. Remove the power steering outlet pipe/hose from the frame. Refer to «Power Steering Gear Outlet Pipe/Hose Replacement (LZ4)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  17. Remove the rear catalytic converter. Refer to «Catalytic Converter Replacement - Left Side (LZ4)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) or «Catalytic Converter Replacement - Right Side (LZ4)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) .
  18. Lower the vehicle until the frame contacts the J 39580 . See «Special Tools»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  19. Remove the reinforcement bolts (1).
  20. Remove the front frame bolts (1).
  21. Remove the rear frame bolts (4).
  22. Remove the frame reinforcements (3).
  23. Raise the vehicle off of the frame.
  24. Remove the following components if replacing the frame: The lower control arms-Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) . The stabilizer shaft-Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .

Installation Procedure

  1. Install the following components on the suspension crossmember if removed: The stabilizer shaft-Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) . The lower control arms-Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  2. Lower the vehicle on to the frame.
  3. Install the frame reinforcements (3).
  4. Install the front frame bolts. Hand tighten ONLY.
  5. Install the reinforcement bolts. Hand tighten ONLY.
  6. Tighten the rear frame bolts (4) to 100 N.m (74 lb ft) plus 90 degrees rotation.
  7. Tighten the front frame bolts (1) to specifications to 100 N.m (74 lb ft) plus 90 degrees rotation.
  8. Install the reinforcement bolts (1) and tighten to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).
  9. Raise the vehicle.
  10. Install the power steering outlet pipe/hose to the frame. Refer to «Power Steering Gear Outlet Pipe/Hose Replacement (LZ4)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  11. Install the brake lines to the retainers on the frame.
  12. Install the rear transmission mount bracket fasteners. Refer to «Transmission Rear Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-4t45-e-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  13. Install the left transmission mount fasteners to the frame. Refer to «Transmission Mount Replacement - Left Side (3.5 (LZ4) With MN5)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-4t45-e-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  14. Install the front transmission mount bracket bolt. Refer to «Transmission Front Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-4t45-e-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  15. Install the engine mount fasteners to the frame. Refer to «Engine Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-35l-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  16. Install the power steering gear mounting fasteners. Refer to «Steering Gear Replacement (Electronic Power Steering)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) or «Steering Gear Replacement (Hydraulic Power Steering LZ4)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  17. Install both stabilizer links to the stabilizer bar. Tighten the stabilizer link nut to 65 N.m (48 lb ft) plus 180 degrees rotation.
  18. Install the tie rod ends to the steering knuckles.
  19. Install the lower ball joints to the steering knuckles. Tighten the ball stud to steering knuckle pinch nut to 50 N.m (37 lb ft). Reverse the nut 3/4 of a turn. Tighten to 50 N.m (37 lb ft) plus 60 degrees.
  20. Install the rear catalytic converter. Refer to «Catalytic Converter Replacement - Left Side (LZ4)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) or «Catalytic Converter Replacement - Right Side (LZ4)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) .
  21. Install the front fender liner. Refer to «Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  22. Install the engine splash shield. Refer to «Radiator Air Lower Baffle and Deflector Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/cooling-system-mechanical/#engine-cooling-system) .
  23. Install the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-wheels) .
  24. Lower the vehicle.
  25. Remove the temporary radiator and condenser support.
  26. Remove the engine support fixture.

J 39580: Engine Support Stand

  1. Install the engine support fixture. Refer to «Engine Support Fixture (LY7)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-36l-repair-instructions-on-vehicle-1-of-2) .
  2. Support the radiator and condenser from above.
  3. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .
  4. Remove the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-wheels) .
  5. Remove the front fender liner. Refer to «Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  6. Remove the engine splash shield. Refer to «Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Left Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) and «Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Right Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  7. Remove the lower ball joints from the steering knuckles. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  8. Remove the tie rod ends from the steering knuckles.
  9. Remove both stabilizer links from the stabilizer bar. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  10. Remove the power steering gear mounting bolts and secure the gear out of the way using mechanic's wire or equivalent, being sure not to overextend the intermediate shaft. Refer to «Steering Gear Replacement (Electronic Power Steering)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) or «Steering Gear Replacement (Hydraulic Power Steering LY7)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  11. Remove the engine mount fasteners from the frame. Refer to «Engine Mount Replacement - Right Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-36l-repair-instructions-on-vehicle-1-of-2) .
  12. Remove the front transmission mount bolt from the frame. Refer to «Transmission Front Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-6t706t75-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  13. Remove the left transmission mount fasteners from the frame. Refer to «Transmission Mount Replacement - Left Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-6t706t75-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  14. Remove the rear transmission mount bracket fasteners from the frame. Refer to «Transmission Mount Bracket Replacement - Rear»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-6t706t75-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  15. Remove the power steering outlet pipe/hose from the frame. Refer to «Power Steering Gear Outlet Pipe/Hose Replacement (LY7)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  16. Remove the rear catalytic converter. Refer to «Catalytic Converter Replacement - Left Side (LY7)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) and «Catalytic Converter Replacement - Right Side (LY7)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) .
  17. Lower the vehicle until the frame contacts the J 39580: stand.
  18. Remove the reinforcement bolts (1).
  19. Remove the front frame bolts (1).
  20. Remove the rear frame bolts (4).
  21. Remove the frame reinforcements (3).
  22. Raise the vehicle off of the frame.
  23. Remove the following components if replacing the frame: The lower control arms-Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) . The stabilizer shaft-Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  1. Install the following components on the suspension crossmember if removed: The stabilizer shaft-Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) . The lower control arms-Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  2. Lower the vehicle on to the frame.
  3. Install the frame reinforcements (3).
  4. Install the front frame bolts. Hand tighten ONLY.
  5. Install the reinforcement bolts. Hand tighten ONLY.
  6. Tighten the rear frame bolts (4) to 100 N.m (74 lb ft) plus 90 degrees rotation.
  7. Tighten the front frame bolts (1) to specifications to 100 N.m (74 lb ft) plus 90 degrees rotation.
  8. Install the reinforcement bolts (1) and tighten to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).
  9. Raise the vehicle.
  10. Install the power steering outlet pipe/hose to the frame. Refer to «Power Steering Gear Outlet Pipe/Hose Replacement (LY7)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  11. Install the brake lines to the retainers on the frame.
  12. Install the rear transmission mount bracket fasteners. Refer to «Transmission Rear Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-6t706t75-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  13. Install the left transmission mount fasteners to the frame. Refer to «Transmission Mount Replacement - Left Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-6t706t75-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  14. Install the front transmission mount bracket bolt. Refer to «Transmission Front Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-6t706t75-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  15. Install the engine mount fasteners to the frame. Refer to «Engine Mount Replacement - Right Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-36l-repair-instructions-on-vehicle-1-of-2) .
  16. Install the power steering gear mounting fasteners. Refer to «Steering Gear Replacement (Electronic Power Steering)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) or «Steering Gear Replacement (Hydraulic Power Steering LY7)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  17. Install both stabilizer links to the stabilizer bar. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  18. Install the tie rod ends to the steering knuckles.
  19. Install the lower ball joints to the steering knuckles. Reverse the nut 3/4 of a turn. Tighten the ball stud to steering knuckle pinch nut to 50 N.m (37 lb ft). Tighten to 50 N.m (37 lb ft) plus 60 degrees.
  20. Install the rear catalytic converter. Refer to «Catalytic Converter Replacement - Left Side (LY7)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) and «Catalytic Converter Replacement - Right Side (LY7)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) .
  21. Install the front fender liner. Refer to «Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  22. Install the engine splash shield. Refer to «Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Left Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) and «Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Right Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  23. Install the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-wheels) .
  24. Lower the vehicle.
  25. Remove the temporary radiator and condenser support.
  26. Remove the engine support fixture.

J 39580: Engine Support Stand

  1. Install the engine support fixture. Refer to «Engine Support Fixture»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/mechanical/#engine-mechanical-24l-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) .
  2. Support the radiator and condenser from above using the condenser tabs on each side.
  3. Raise the vehicle on a hoist. Refer to «Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/ignition-switchsteering-lock/#general-information) .
  4. Remove the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-wheels) .
  5. Remove the front fender liner. Refer to «Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  6. LE5 only, remove the front catalytic converter. Refer to «Catalytic Converter Replacement (LAT or LE5)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) or «Catalytic Converter Replacement (LE5 or LE9 With MH8)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) .
  7. Remove the engine splash shields. Refer to «Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Left Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) and «Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Right Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  8. Remove the lower ball joints from the steering knuckles. Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  9. Remove the tie rod ends from the steering knuckles.
  10. Remove both stabilizer links from the stabilizer bar. Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Link Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) .
  11. Separate the steering gear from the intermediate shaft. Refer to «Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/steering-column-switches/#steering-wheel-steering-column) .
  12. Remove the front transmission mount bolt from the frame. Refer to «Transmission Front Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-4t45-e-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) for Automatic Transmission - 4T45-E or «Transmission Front Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-6t306t406t45-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) for Automatic Transmission - 6T30/6T40/6T45.
  13. Remove the rear transmission mount bracket fasteners from the frame. Refer to «Transmission Rear Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-4t45-e-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) for Automatic Transmission - 4T45-E or «Transmission Rear Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-6t306t406t45-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) for Automatic Transmission - 6T30/6T40/6T45.
  14. Lower the vehicle until the frame contacts the J 39580: stand.
  15. Remove the reinforcement bolts (1).
  16. Remove the front frame bolts (1).
  17. Remove the rear frame bolts (4).
  18. Remove the frame reinforcements (3).
  19. Raise the vehicle off of the frame.
  20. Remove the following components if replacing the frame: The steering gear-Refer to «Steering Gear Replacement (Electronic Power Steering)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) The lower control arms-Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) The stabilizer shaft-Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) The radiator support brackets The vibration dampener, if equipped
  1. Install the following components on the suspension crossmember if removed: The vibration dampener, if equipped The radiator support brackets The stabilizer shaft-Refer to «Stabilizer Shaft Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) . The lower control arms-Refer to «Lower Control Arm Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/suspension-front/#front-suspension-system) . The steering gear-Refer to «Steering Gear Replacement (Electronic Power Steering)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  2. Lower the vehicle on to the frame.
  3. Install the frame reinforcements (3).
  4. Install the front frame bolts. Hand tighten ONLY.
  5. Install the reinforcement bolts. Hand tighten ONLY.
  6. Install the rear frame bolts (4) and tighten to 100 N.m (74 lb ft) plus 90 degrees rotation.
  7. Tighten the front frame bolts (1) and tighten to 100 N.m (74 lb ft) plus 90 degrees rotation.
  8. Install the reinforcement bolts (1) and tighten to 100 N.m (74 lb ft).
  9. Raise the vehicle.
  10. Install the rear transmission mount bracket fasteners. Refer to «Transmission Rear Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-4t45-e-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) for Automatic Transmission - 4T45-E or «Transmission Rear Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-6t306t406t45-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) for Automatic Transmission - 6T30/6T40/6T45.
  11. Install the front transmission mount bracket bolt. Refer to «Transmission Front Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-4t45-e-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) for Automatic Transmission - 4T45-E or «Transmission Front Mount Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/automatic-trans/#automatic-transaxle-6t306t406t45-repair-instructions-on-vehicle) for Automatic Transmission - 6T30/6T40/6T45.
  12. Install the power steering gear mounting bolts. Refer to «Steering Gear Replacement (Electronic Power Steering)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/electronic-steering/#power-steering-system) .
  13. Connect the steering gear to the intermediate shaft. Refer to «Intermediate Steering Shaft Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/steering-column-switches/#steering-wheel-steering-column) .
  14. Install both stabilizer links to the stabilizer bar. Tighten the stabilizer link nut to 65 N.m (48 lb ft).
  15. Install the tie rod ends to the steering knuckles.
  16. Install the lower ball joints to the steering knuckles. Tighten the ball stud to steering knuckle pinch nut to 50 N.m (37 lb ft). Reverse the nut 3/4 of a turn. Tighten to 50 N.m (37 lb ft) plus 60 degrees.
  17. Install the front fender liner. Refer to «Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  18. Install the engine splash shields. Refer to «Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Left Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) and «Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Right Side»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  19. Install the tire and wheel assemblies. Refer to «Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/wheel-tire-system/#tires-wheels) .
  20. LE5 only, install the front catalytic converter. Refer to «Catalytic Converter Replacement (LAT or LE5)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) or «Catalytic Converter Replacement (LE5 or LE9 With MH8)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/exhaust/#engine-exhaust-system) .
  21. Remove the engine support fixture.

Tools Required

J-45725 Frame Bushing Installer. See Special Tools .

  1. Remove the frame. Refer to «Frame Replacement (3.5L)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) or «Frame Replacement (3.6L)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) or «Frame Replacement (2.4L)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  2. Remove cradle bushing with a rubber mallet.
  1. Install clamp J-45725 onto the bushing leaving about an 1/8 inch from the bottom of the bushing. See «Special Tools»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  2. Align the split of the bushing to the front of the frame.
  3. Using J-45725 install the bushing until the entire radius of the bushing is halfway recessed in the cradle. See «Special Tools»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  4. Remove the J-45725 clamp. See «Special Tools»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  5. Install the bushing using the J-45725 until the lip of the bushing is fully seated to the bottom of the cradle assembly. See «Special Tools»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .
  6. Install the frame. Refer to «Frame Replacement (3.5L)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) or «Frame Replacement (3.6L)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) or «Frame Replacement (2.4L)»(/chevrolet/malibu/vii-2008-2012/remont/frames-subframes-crossmembers/#frame-and-underbody) .

Scheme 1

Scheme 1: Front Wheelhouse Lower Center Panel Replacement
Scheme 1: Front Wheelhouse Lower Center Panel Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Remove the front wheelhouse panel splash shield. Refer to Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement .
1Front Wheelhouse Panel Lower Center Panel Plastic Retainer (Qty: 2)
2Front Wheelhouse Panel Lower Center Panel Procedure Disconnect any electrical connector. Transfer components as necessary.

Scheme 2

Scheme 2: Rear Wheelhouse Panel Liner Replacement
Scheme 2: Rear Wheelhouse Panel Liner Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
1Rear Wheelhouse Liner Panel Screw (Qty: 2) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten: 2 N.m (18 lb in)
2Rear Wheelhouse Liner Panel Nut Tighten: 2 N.m (18 lb in)
3Rear Wheelhouse Liner Panel Plastic Retainer (Qty: 5)
4Rear Wheelhouse Liner Panel
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Scheme 3

Scheme 3: Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement
Scheme 3: Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Remove the front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
1Front Fender Liner Screw (Qty: 4) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten: 2 N.m (18 lb in)
2Front Fender Liner Plastic Retainer (Qty: 11) Procedure: Transfer any parts as needed.
3Front Fender Liner
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Scheme 4

Scheme 4: Engine Splash Shield Replacement
Scheme 4: Engine Splash Shield Replacement
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedure: Remove the radiator air lower deflector. Refer to Radiator Air Lower Deflector Replacement .
1Engine Splash Shield Screw (Qty: 5) CAUTION: Refer to Fastener Caution . Tighten: 2 N.m (18 lb in)
2Engine Splash Shield Plastic Retainer (Qty: 2)
3Engine Splash Shield
CAUTION
Refer to Fastener Caution .

Scheme 5

Scheme 5: Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Left Side
Scheme 5: Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Left Side
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Remove the radiator air lower baffle and deflector. Refer to Radiator Air Lower Deflector Replacement . Remove the front wheelhouse panel splash shield. Refer to Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement . Remove the plastic retainer connecting the radiator air baffle and deflector to the splash shield. Refer to Radiator Air Side Baffle and Deflector Replacement .
1Engine Splash Shield Replacement Plastic Retainer (Qty: 3)
2Engine Splash Shield

Scheme 6

Scheme 6: Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Right Side
Scheme 6: Engine Splash Shield Replacement - Right Side
CalloutComponent Name
Preliminary Procedures Remove the radiator air lower baffle and deflector. Refer to Radiator Air Lower Deflector Replacement . Remove the front wheelhouse panel splash shield. Refer to Front Wheelhouse Panel Splash Shield Replacement . Remove the plastic retainer connecting the radiator air baffle and deflector to the splash shield. Refer to Radiator Air Side Baffle and Deflector Replacement .
1Engine Splash Shield Replacement Plastic Retainer (Qty: 5)
2Engine Splash Shield

Illustration Tool Number/ Description J 39580 Engine Support Stand J 45725 Frame Bushing Installer

Scheme 7

Scheme 7: Special Tools
Scheme 7: Special Tools