C2 Core Support Shims

[Donald T.]

Hey guys!

This one really has me scratching my head. The core support in my 65 was a later GM service replacement (FI hole), so I needed to replace it with a correct support. A couple of years ago I obtained an NOS core support. It has the saddle brackets on the rods unlike the repos, so I assumed it was the real deal. When I went to install it, it sat way too high. I removed the entire shim stack from both sides, a total of 13 shims. In order to get the side holes to line up, it required no shims on one side, only one on the other. So I cleaned up one of the originals and welded it back into place.

I assume the shims were used to account for variations in the body, and the core supports would be dimensionally identical. The GM replacement support fit fine with the factory shim count, and obviously the original would have fit as well. If it was a repo support, I could understand the difference, but I would think all GM supports would be interchangeable. I've never seen a C2 without at least a few shims on each side. Will this cause a problem during judging? Do I just draw a circle for the shim mark to indicate no shims?

Thanks!

[Mike M.]

Re: C2 Core Support Shims

i've never judged or disassembled a midyear with as many as 13 shims. i would use what you believe is the nos support and use just the # of shims needed to align the front clip. i seem to recall an old midyear that lacked shims on one side like you describe. doubt judges will get heartburn over lack of shim on one side and several on the other side. good luck, mike

[Michael H.]

Re: C2 Core Support Shims

Don,

I'm curious. When you removed the incorrect core support, did you properly support the nose of the body? If not supported, it will drop down at least 1/4" or more when unbolted from the core support which will produce the exact problem that you describe. The now free weight of the front fiberglass, and especially the headlught motors etc, will definitely pull the front down.

If the support isn't in a correct height position, it usually causes problems with hood to fender horizontal surface alignment problems about midway back on the sides of the hood. If your hood still fits properly, you'll probably be ok with the shims that you have installed.

[Donald T.]

Re: C2 Core Support Shims

Thanks Mike and Michael. No headlamp motors installed, but the front was unsupported when I checked the alignment. I didn't think of that. I will check the hood fit and adjust accordingly.

Thanks!