Replacing front sub frame in M45

[Rocinante]

Hello. Long time lurker, first time poster. I have always wanted an M45 but have never actually needed one, at least that is what my wife says. Well, I have the opportunity to but one REALLY cheap. It has 250,000 miles on it and runs surprisingly well. The issue with the car is that it recently slapped a curb in our most recent snow storm. The shop where it was brought says that there is heavy damage on the suspension and the cradle. Is this easily repairable? Can you unbolt the cradle and replace it or is it an actual unit body? If it is something that I can replace without welding I may go for it. They described it as being similar to an early Camaro where you can unbolt the sub frame and bolt in a new one. I know it is more involved than that, but I am asking first before I really get involved. Thanks in advance.

[jbracy7]

I'm no pro on the M's but most of the newer stuff is replaceable but have them put it on a lift to see the damage for yourself before u buy

[Rocinante]

Thanks for the reply. Since I've posted that question, I have found the answer. It is a cradle and will drop out from below after supporting the engine. I am going to bite the bullet today and grab the car. It is literally that cheap that I cannot pass on it. I am paying less for the car than the owner just paid for the 4 brand new tires . Front fascia has a small tear in it so, I will replace that too and shoot the front end and drive it. Thanks again.

[DeanM45]

Yep, subframe drops easily, support the motor (I just used a regular hoist), unbolt the motor mounts, unbolt steering knuckle and then unbolt the cradle. Pretty straight forward, I had to do it when I was building my headers. There is also the usual power steering lines (rack is bolted to subframe) , brake lines, sensors and the stock trans cooler lines are bolted on as well. Easy to do once you get under it. Two floor jacks can support the cross member easily and with two people it is really easy to move around.

[Rocinante]

Thanks for the reply. I have access to a complete repair facility that will make work on the car much easier than at my garage. I am looking at the car one more time to look at the potential damage.