E36 Broken Subframe Mount
 

I took the subframe out to replace the bushings. Some sheet metal fell down and this was revealed.

There are repair plates available, but they require welding. Which I have never done.

The only thing I can think of to do is put enough of the car back together to tow it to a shop that can weld in the plates.

Currently the transmission, driveshaft, and rear assembly are out.

Any suggestions?

That's not the worst you'll see by a long stretch, so repair using the reinforcement plates look like a good option.
The Turner Motorsports kits provide all the plates and decent directions for the home wrench for around $100.

http://www.turnermotorsport.com/p-39...ement-kit.aspx

There's a fair bit of work involved to prepare for welding, the welding itself, and re-assembly. There may be a Dorki or two who might offer a good deal to do the welding for you if you take it to their place. Just thinking out loud on this.

Cheaper at Bimmerworld;) Great guys and w/ them being in VA you'll have in a day or two.
http://store.bimmerworld.com/e36-rea...-kit-p541.aspx

Now that they are torn completely there is a lot more work involved. You first have to weld them back in (in the correct location!) and then weld in the reinforcements. If you catch them when its just a crack its much simpler.

Where in " 'merlend" are you? On lift or jackstands?

Thanks guys. I don't suppose this would be a good time to learn MIG welding would it? Even if I managed that, it would definitely be tricky installing in the correct location.

I'm located in Bel Air, and the car is on jack stands. Was a bit worried about hiring someone to do the work, especially with how the car is sitting in a cramped garage and not very high up in the air (18" or so).

3 of the 4 mounts are still good, so it can be put back together and moved.

Welding torn sheet metal upside down while laying on your back with 18" of room seems ambitious for a my-first-MIG project.

Possible the scariest video I've seen of subframe failure. E46 M3

Go to around 3:00 to see it during very sedate driving.

MIG welding the underside of a car that's on jackstands is a frustrating experience for so many reasons.