Looking to swap the cross member of the front suspension. Hit a curb and skid the plate which caused a bent wheel. Took it in for an alignment but they were unable to fix the problem and said that it was likely the frame. Could anybody provide some reference on the swap and what else needs to come off? Or any recommendation at all?
As shown in catalog Figure 51-02, Suspension Crossmember & Under Cover, the part is the front suspension crossmember sub-assembly, part number 51201-52087, list price $1,100.73. Removal and installation instructions are in the Repair Manual (more info). It’s not a trivial job; at least if you follow Toyota’s procedures, you’d need not only a vehicle lift but also an engine lifter, and you’d have to separate the steering sliding yoke sub-assembly, front stabilizer links, tie rod end sub-assemblies, front lower no. 1 suspension arm sub-assemblies, and engine moving control rod. Without having seen the car, I couldn’t say whether this would be necessary or sufficient to correct the alignment problem you describe.
You have a big job to repair. Not turning to insurance? Just replacing the x-member may still have the "horns" remaining out of alignment. To align the horns accurate measurement will be, and even specialty tools can be, needed. DIY heating, hammering, pushing, and pulling with a dozer or ram (tools) at home could be futile. Further, you know you have a bent rim but are other suspension components bent (adding to the repair cost) too? Well, I guess my best suggestion is to find a local frame alignment shop, preferably over an overall body shop, and get an estimate. Good luck.
