I recently purchased a 68 big block roadster to find a bent frame. I'm looking at replacing the frame and was wondering if there is a difference between a big block and a small block frame. I think there is a difference between a manual and a automatic please correct me if I'm wrong. Any information on the differences would be greatly appreciated.
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Re: 68 Frame info
Gary-----
There is no difference between a big block frame and a small blcok frame with one caveat: small block frames MAY not have the weld nuts for the rear say bar retainers. These can be difficult to add, so it's best to obtain a frame that already has them if you can. Many small blocks did have the unused weld nuts, but at least some don't.
The manual and automatic frames are different for 1968 to 1978. Manual trans frames have a welded-in crossmember and have the clutch cross shaft bracket welded to the left forward frame rail. Automatic trans frames have a bolted-in crossmember and, usually, don't have the cross shaft bracket. An automatic frame can be used for a manual trans application and the cross shaft bracket can be easily added. It's available in reproduction. However, a welded-in crossmember frame cannot be used for an automatic trans 68+ application.In Appreciation of John Hinckley -
Re: 68 Frame info
Gary: Not sure of the scope of your project, so this may not apply -- "frame is bent" can mean a lot of things. Before you assume it needs to be replaced, consider just having it pulled. A good rack operator can work wonders. -KarlComment
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Re: 68 Frame info
Gary - you didn't elaborate on your frame and what is bent, but you may want to consider this outfit, they can bring your frame back to specification without replacement in many cases:
Grace WayComment
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Re: 68 Frame info
Thanks Joe for the information on the differences in frames, very helpful. And Thanks Karl and Craig I'll be getting in contact with Grace Way.Comment
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