Freelander 2 (LR2) Rear subframe

Hi guys I need some advice, I have a 2008 FL2 vr just bought a rear subframe to replace the one that has perished, I can’t find anything on the web video’s or text about the procedure to remove and install, I’ve always done my own cars and was hoping someone could point me in the right direction for procedure or video, thanks in advance

It's a good days work.
The inboard suspension links need unbolting, and the drive shafts need pulling put the diff.
It should be possible to leave the diff in the subframe, and remove the whole assembly together, keeping in mind that it'll be heavy.
The exhaust also needs to be removed, as it'll be in the way.

Use very sturdy support for the car too, as it's a heavy old beast.

The workshop manual shows the operation IIRC.

Yeah I had a look underneath and seen the back box and pipe needs removing and the axles also but wasn’t sure about the diff

boaz said:

Yeah I had a look underneath and seen the back box and pipe needs removing and the axles also but wasn’t sure about the diff

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The diff is entirely mounted to the subframe, so can be removed with it.
It's easier to swap the diff over on the ground, than up in the air, although the subframe is much heavier with the diff fitted, I don't think it's any harder to install with the diff already in it. Don't forget to take the opportunity to service the Haldex while it's out, and obviously the diff will need fresh oil on refitting too.

I'm expecting to be replacing my own subframe at some point in the future, as I'm hoping to get another 3 years or so out of my FL2.

Yeah never crossed my mind I thought the diff could stay in place, another thing to do now oh well it makes sense mate

boaz said:

Yeah never crossed my mind I thought the diff could stay in place, another thing to do now oh well it makes sense mate

Click to expand...

Mechanics who work with vehicles all day and have a natural ability to fix things generally find an easier way of doing things.

I had to replace a light fitting that had stopped working in a camper. I took the fitting off and it became obvious why it had stopped - the wires had fallen out... and gone back through the small hole they were poked through.

I was wondering how I was going to get these wires back through the hole - it was impossible to grab them through the hole and I was thinking I was going to have to remove the panel some how - which would have needed cutting out and then try and make it look presentable when I put it back. I was thinking the results would look like a right dog's dinner.

So I asked the mechanic for advice.

He very quickly suggested removing a speaker that was close by and putting an arm through that hole to poke the wires through.

Once he'd suggested it, it sounded bloody obvious - but it took me 1/2 hour of procrastenating not to think of it, and him about 10 seconds to think of it.