Hotchkis 4001 User Manual

#4001 SUBFRAME CONNECTORS 1982-1992

CAMARO/FIREBIRD

Please read instructions completely before starting installation. Hotchkis
Performance subframe connectors are weld-in units and may require
modification of the exhaust system. This installation should be performed
by a welding professional only! They can not be installed on convertibles.

1) Support car securely on jack stands or hoist. Leave area under doors clear for

placement of subframe connectors. Begin on the passenger side.

2) Measure from pinch weld under passenger door to closest point of exhaust

“Y” pipe. Minimum clearance must be 2 ½ inches! (see fig. 1). If
necessary, remove exhaust “Y” pipe and shorten to allow adequate clearance
between pipe and passenger side pinch weld. Check for clearance, but do not
install “Y” pipe at this time.

Figure 1

3) Attach the rear of the connector to the trailing arm mount using existing

hardware, and then lift until the front contacts the floor of the car. Use a
marker to show where the front of the connector contacts the floor. With
connector held in place, mark the trailing arm mount around the outside of the
connector flange and as far as possible along the bottom of the flange (see
fig. 2).

Figure 2

4) Remove the connector and grind the areas marked on the car for welding. Be

sure to grind through all protective plating. Grind powder coating off of the

subframe connectors in areas to be welded.

5) Put the subframe connector in place and tighten the trailing arm bolt to a snug

fit. Tack weld the connector in several places at each end. Remove the rear
control arm and completely weld in the subframe connectors. When the area
has cooled, paint welds and any bare metal.

6) Install control arm and torque to 70 ft./lbs.

7) Install “Y” pipe, relocating air tube clamp forward (see fig. 1).

8) Proceed to driver’s side. Repeat steps 3 through 6. If necessary bend plate at

front of subframe connector to allow total contact with floor.