Cross strut front axle

[mauro12]

Hello guys, I recently replaced in my car all tie rods , drag link and steering damper. The only thing I didn’t replace is the cross strut, honestly I don’t know what is the real task of the part but I saw that the bushes are really worn out and probably I need to replace the entire part. Do you think the car is going to have better driveability with a brand new cross strut? Is it worth to replace? Thank you.
Mauro

[stickandrudderman]

The front sub frame, to which all of the front suspension is mounted, is itself mounted to the chassis by rubber blocks. The lateral rod prevents the the flex in that rubber causing the thrust angle to be deflected as loads are applied.
It’s imperative that it’s in good order if the car is to handle correctly and stability optimised.

[ja17]

Yes, definitely helps handling and drive-ability. Otherwise the subframe assembly with engine will have excessive movement during braking and cornering. Possibly the end bushings can  be ordered separately?

[mauro12]

Yes the bushes can be ordered separetly but the entire piece is rusted so I think it worth to change all. I’m curious to see what difference will have the car.

[stickandrudderman]

You’re welcome.

[Shvegel]

In moving my engine and front axle back from Minnesota where is was removed to Ohio where it was restored my cross strut was bent slightly.  After straightening in in my vice I looked at it and thought "It will probably be OK." but the angel on my other shoulder said "Why would you mess around with something that keeps the front axle going in a straight line?" So I bought a new one.  I am glad I did and that it was still available but at $150 it is an expensive little sucker for what it is.

[pch2021]

You can get new bushings for the strut, but the ID of the hole is too small. You have to get out a 12 mm drill bit and enlarge the current hole. Still, at roughly $8 a piece I'm not complaining

[mauro12]

A new cross strut from sls shop is only 40€.