So I just got a ‘92 G20 with a 350, same year and engine as my truck(yay!) but it has a big suspension problem. Now some, if not all of you will know that these vans are unibody design, but have a K-Frame / Crossmember / Engine cradle that bolts on the front underbelly of the frame area.

On my new van, the driver’s side rear part of the engine cradle - where the control arm attaches - is rotted open, and the back of the lower control arm is hanging down. The last owner put a ratchet strap which is holding pretty well, but I’m not about to just drive it like this because I’ll never get my band out of the driveway, let alone to our gig.

I’m also trying to figure out what to do. Spring compressors won’t fit in the tight space, it seems strut and old style simply won’t get in there. I really don’t want this spring to shoot out but if I have to I will. I just need an idea of what to do next. I have a new engine cradle coming already and I’m set on fixing this.

Do do I take the wheel off and try to work as normal on it, removing things one piece at a time as it normally would go, or should I try to compress the spring somehow (I’m scared to try C clamps) and then do it? Thanks for any help/advice!

 

what I would do

 

Go do that then. I’m looking for legit answers here

 

Put a strap or chain through the coil and lower the A-arm down with a floor jack. There might be a slight pop as it comes loose.