Uni-Body, Subframe and Mounting System: Other Ford Escape I рестайлинг

Front Subframe

The front subframe is bolted to the body and is used to

1. aid in structural support.
2. provide mounting surfaces for the front suspension control arms.
3. provide a mounting point for the engine isolators.
4. provide the mounting surface for the steering gear.
5. provide the mounting surface for the sway bar.

Rear Subframe

The rear subframe is bolted to the body and is used to

1. aid in structural support.
2. provide mounting surfaces for the rear suspension control arms.
3. provide mounting surfaces for the rear differential (4WD).

Welding Precautions

The proper equipment and settings must be used when welding mild or high strength steel. Metal inert gas (MIG) and resistance spot welding are the preferred methods. Surfaces must be clean and free of foreign materials.

1. The correct protective clothing should always be worn.
2. Adequate ventilation must be provided to avoid accumulation of poisonous gases.
3. A test weld should always be carried out on a test sample.
4. Follow equipment manufacturer's prescribed procedures and equipment settings for the type of weld being used.
5. Disconnect the battery ground cable from the battery. Refer to «BATTERY, MOUNTING AND CABLES»(ref-232248) .
6. On Hybrid vehicles, depower the high voltage traction battery system. Refer to «HIGH VOLTAGE TRACTION BATTERY»(ref-232253) .
7. Disconnect on-vehicle modules and protect them from possible heat damage and electrical currents when welding.
8. Corrosion protection needs to be restored whenever it is necessary to sand or grind through painted surfaces or E-coat, or when bare metal repairs are carried out.

Underbody misalignment can affect front and rear wheel alignment, the operation of the suspension parts and drivetrain operation. Window glass cracks, door and window opening concerns, and air or water leaks at the doors are often caused by improperly tightened bolts and body misalignment.

Body Misalignment Check

Note. All measurements should be made from the bare metal; remove trim and bumper covers as necessary.

1. Repair the badly damaged areas before taking measurements for underbody alignment.
2. To check the underbody alignment, take the measurements between opposite reference points, such as crease lines or weld joints.
3. Monitor the upper body structure for excessive stress or movement while making any corrections to the underbody structure. Remove all the necessary glass to prevent breakage. For additional information, refer to «GLASS, FRAMES AND MECHANISMS»(ref-232186) .

Underbody Misalignment Check

1. The dimensions of the underbody must be restored to provide the correct front and rear wheel alignment geometry.
2. The dimensions are measured between the centers of the existing holes in the underbody unless otherwise specified.
3. Inspect all underbody structural members for cracks, twists or bends. Check all welded connections for cracks. Inspect the support brackets for looseness. Carry out any necessary repairs or install new components as necessary.
4. Underbody dimension tolerances are + 3 mm (0.12 in).
5. To align or square a body, take 2 opposite diagonal measurements between pillars. Take measurements between reference points such as crease lines or weld joints, which are diagonally opposite each other on the 2 pillars being measured.
6. Due to the design and construction of the unibody vehicle, it is important to monitor the upper body structure while making any corrections to the underbody structure.
7. The dimensions shown are symmetrical.

UNDERBODY DIMENSIONS

Scheme 9