Engine Cradle job on the Side, how difficult to pull off?

[derek2134]

1995 Monte Carlo Z34

First of all, exactly what tool/lift is needed anyway since I was told the engine and transmission have to be held in place while the cradle is changed. Is this the type of job I am going to be able to get done on the side for say $250 ($30-40/hr labor) or is it going to be a lost cause?

My monte needs a cradle, catalytic converter, and probably new struts too. With 150,000 miles, I am just not sure what I want to do with it. It has a dent in the front passenger fender too, and a tear that I taped in the back leather seat. To get this car looking and running exactly how I want it I am thinking about $1,000-$1,500, and unless this car was going to get 250,000 miles, I doubt I could justify that.

[richtazz]

Are you sure you need a cradle, or just cradle mounts? Unless the car was in an accident, or left out in a field and the frame severely rusted, cradles rarely fail.

[derek2134]

yes it was in an accident - hit a curb with the wheel turned at about 35-40mph. i was told by about 4 different people now that the cradle is bent