This is what dirty, but not rusty, original subframes look like!
 

I've been reading a lot from MJ on WITW threads where she constantly (it seems) has to deal with rust and seized bolts etc due to road salt during UK winters...
Also, talking cars with my cousin in Worcs, he often mentions that cars here probably lack rot - which is largely true, especially since high carbon and nickel steels and zinc undercoats have been in use.

For anyone interested, these are my original (but dirty - I live on a dirt road) subframes as I paid some attention to them when on the hoist yesterday. (Sorry Michaela, but I haven't yet put the under covers on since the timing belt :tuttut:):

First three are actually the rear subframe:

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/attachmen...1&d=1624337214

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/attachmen...1&d=1624337214

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/attachmen...1&d=1624337214


Now for the front subframe:

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/attachmen...1&d=1624337214

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/attachmen...1&d=1624337214

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/attachmen...1&d=1624337214

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/attachmen...1&d=1624337214


Bash plate/cross member for the transmission - lots of scratches, only surface rust though...

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/attachmen...1&d=1624337214


Not exactly a rust free subframe...
But very pretty grain silos none the less at Rochford Victoria on Saturday!
http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/attachmen...1&d=1624337214

Lucky! Thats what my newly refurbished subframe will look like after two days on the Devon lanes :D

Swaybar bushes are looking a bit sad.
Any poly ones available for the S8? Powerflex maybe?

New tyres were required too.
So I put the S5 rims back on for a change...

Parked at work with my mates Type 2 Kombi and his trainees classic HQ Monaro GTS 350 (both around 1972 vintage).
It was early am in case you're wondering why the windscreen shade is on it.

http://forum.a8parts.co.uk/attachmen...1&d=1624347541

4D0411327H - looks like there are plenty of aftermarket versions of it. Powerflex don't have the 29mm version for the S8 though. Only the smaller ones which are compatible with A4 and A6.