A bit of clunk, and this what I find. So much for an easy ball joint replacement. Any ideas if this can be fixed?

 

Wow, its rotted away!! it needs to be replaced.

fortunately for you, there was a recent thread about this....lemme try to find it

 

either way, it needs to be replaced.

you can find a used subframe cheaper than new.

 

Was afraid it was not replaceable being part of the frame. It's a 2000 Acura TL with 250K. Other than that issue, it runs well.

 

^its actually a sub-frame.

it's meant to be replaced, as there are bolts holding it.
it happens a lot to the 2nd gen TL's, as I saw a few recent threads on your exact same problem.
those threads tho, were asking on how to get it replaced for free.

since the car is 13 years old, i doubt anything would be given for free.
if it were me, I'd find a used front sub-frame and just have it replaced. shouldnt be more than 300??? for the sub frame.
I'm not sure how much it would cost to have it installed.

 

I'll make some calls tomorrow and see if I can find one at a salvage yard that doesn't have the same issue. Bet it was caused by the AC drain. Might be time to replace the TL, it's been a good vehicle, except for the two trannys.

 

Hey Jchick, if your present tranny is good.....then it would be worth replacing the subframe. As Justnspace suggested......try to locate a good used one and replace the rusted section.

The part shouldn't be overly expensive at a wrecking yard, and if ya have a way to support the motor, it'll be a matter of bolts and nuts holding the part on.

 

I'm finding some front subframes for around $300 online. Not sure if I want to attempt this in my garage. Still waiting for call-backs from local shops.

If I don't do my Timing belt service for the 2nd time (I'm over by 15K), wonder when that engine will blow up? It's all part of the financial calculations !

 

250k and running well...but T-belt and rusted subframe ?

Yeah, if ya are capable of doing these things yourself, then it's just a matter of parts cost. But once ya start looking at larger expenses, it's a hard decision. With the T-belt, if everything was replaced at the time...ya could chance running it until it blows.

However, the rusted subframe could pose a safety risk at any time, IMO.
So are ya ready for a car payment ????....or buy some more time with the 'ol TL ?