I am replacing the cross member on my turbo 350. I have removed the 4 bolts from the sub frame (2 on each side) and the two bolts from the trans mount. Trans is supported by a jack stand so the cross member moves freely. On the driver’s side, the brake lines were moved out of the way.

The cross member will not come out. It’s hitting the floor pan on both sides. Some posts in the archives indicate I should loosen the rear sub frame bolts. Is this true? Seems like a lot of work to remove the cross member. Also, it does not look like the exhaust is going to be an issue. Is this correct?

What am I missing? Since there is some play in the floor plan, I am ready to take the old hammer and force it out, but I want to do it right.

Please let me know.

If you are not worried about scratches a BFH works well. Your body mounts must be in bad shape, so body is resting on frame.

I had a tough time getting the cross member out with my first 69 --- agree with TJS69 that the BFH may be needed. If I remember correctly, I had to knock one side towards the rear of the car and the other side forward in order to get it out.

Yep. That's how it is done. Your body bushings are probably worn enough so the body has dropped closer to the frame.

Loosen the subframe bolt on that side and use a hammer, T

hat's how mine came out and my bushings were not in that bad of shape. Squished a bit but by no means "gone".