YODAONE

Acquired a low mileage subframe assembly in excellent condition from a 1999 LS400.

Am in process of fortifying welds, then repaint (the factory black suspension paint does not hold up well in moist environments) and am investigating filling the subframe tubes with professional grade two-part damping foam.

Meanwhile am boxing the large gull-wing shaped rear subframe braces to increase their rigidity.

For it's gage and weight the braces do a pretty good job of centering and holding the subframe bushings in place, but am able to cause it to flex somewhat with my bare hands, so am boxing them.


Replacement subframe

Rear subrame to chassis mounting brackets center and hold the rear subframe bushings

The area to be boxed.


1995-2000 LS400 Rear subframe parts diagram depicting brackets.

Links to posts of other chassis braces and subframe braces that were boxed:

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-1st-and-2nd-gen-1990-2000/885595-fortifying-rear-suspension-crossmember-braces-2.html

https://www.clublexus.com/forums/ls-1st-and-2nd-gen-1990-2000/873466-front-center-and-rear-center-crossmember-braces.html

vidlev

what kind of shape are the 4 rubber bushings in? mileage on this subframe?

I am contemplating replacing my rear subframe bushings in my quest to replace all rubber in the suspension....

YODAONE

First, acquired an extra subframe from a low mileage vehicle. The subframe bushing feel pliable

Second, intend to paint spare with more durable paint than OEM.. LS400 body/chassis paint is World class, but suspension components paint is not durable. May go with body color paint on subframe...

Third, want to be able to swap in replacement rear subframe while extracting original.

If a shop performs work, they prefer not to tie up their bay while subframe is out for painting or parts... Simple in and out is lower cost.

Did install new upper differential bushings in subframe. The originals had very minor fissures, so replaced

Also have a spare differential from 27k mileage LS400. Based on age, am deciding whether to replace pinion and side seals.

Have a set of new Toyota front differential bushings, but may leave those alone.