The frame extensions on my 69 coupe were torch slotted to get the bolts in so I found a set of NOS extensions ( #3958797 & 3958798) but it appears that the bolt holes on them is not correct either. I cant figure out why? The factory holes in both appear to be in the same location which are too far forward. Any suggestions would help. Thanks In advance Brad
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Re: 69 frame extensions
Those are the correct part numbers for 68-72 Corvette; if they are NOS and unaltered, then the holes are correct...something else is out of whack, or you're missing something.
Are you installing the bolts in the right holes on the frame?...the top hole, and the second hole from the rear edge of the extensions take bolts that thread into nuts welded onto the frame rails. The other two holes receive bolts, lock washers and hex nuts. Has the frame been replaced?
The front cross member bolts to these extensions, and to the radiator support...Are you saying the extensions don't align with the front cross member when it is attached to the radiator support? -
Re: 69 frame extensions
Chuck, the extensions that came on this car are still on the frame.They are slotted from the original holes towards the rear about an inch thus moving the extensoins forward.The bolts appear to be in the right holes. The front crossmember/ core support is still bolted to the extensions and appear to be in about the right position. The front fiberglass has been replaced at some point with what I believe to be an original front group. I really hope the frame hasen't been replaced. I looked for the vin stamp on the frame but I can't seem to find it.It doesnt appear that the body mount bolts have been out. Do later / earlier frames have the extensions? What do you think? BradComment
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Re: 69 frame extensions
Hi Brad, It sounds suspicious to me.
It almost sounds like the front frame section has been pushed back the 1" and "whoever" made on the fly mods to get things to jive back up.
I would think that there would be signs of this along the frame rails and front crossmember with either buckled sections or even signs of separated and re-welded sections of the front portion of frame.
I hope I'm wrong Brad.
ChuckComment
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Re: 69 frame extensions
What I was thinking, Chuck...Bubba with a band-aid and a prayer.
Frankly, Brad, I can't help you with the specifics on the frames. I tend to be an expert on only one 70 Corvette; beyond that I am often guessing. I believe 68-72 are all the same...there may be slight differences in earlier C2 frames, and later C3 frames, but I don't know if any of the differences would affect your problem.
In trying to reconcile this apparent misfit, one thought I had was a later frame from the "soft noses" might have been used with a slightly different configuration in the front. This might be what lead Bubba to "adapt" the extensions to a new frame. Don't doubt the extensions...if you have the part numbers you posted before, then that is what you should have; the devil is in the other details.
Your best bet on seeing the serial number on the frame is at the location on the top of the frame rail in the driver side rear wheel well. Remove the tire, and feel or look for the stamp on top of the frame rail using an inspection mirror...it will be somewhere behind the axle centerline and before the #4 mount.Comment
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Re: 69 frame extensions
Chuck and Chuck, I was concerned about the front end being replaced so I took it to a highly recomended frame shop and they said that the passenger side was pushed back 1/8 inch( not enough to worry about) and to bring it back as a roller with the body off and it would be easier to straighten. I am trying to find the vin on the frame but can't seem to find it through the heavy surface rust. It is a hard spot to see. But I am still trying. I am just hoping that the frame hasen't been replaced. That would be a mess. BradComment
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Re: Could be Brad
As the "other" Mr. Chuck mentioned, the numbers on the top of the driver's side kickup will be your best bet to access with the body on.
If the frame is heavily rusted, you'll probably need some #100 grit sand paper to scuff off the surface rust and shine things back up. The areas between the shock mount and the #4 body mount is the general area. Adjusting a light to shine accross the top of the frame and a mirror (as large as you can comfortably fit in there) should produce the numbers.
The numbers on my severely rusted frame were still clearly visible after a few minutes with a wire brush on my small grinder. If mine were still there yours probably are as well. It won't be fun that's for sure unless your a contorsionist for a Carnival.
I don't know whether to hope you find the correct numbers or not Brad. Damned if you do and damned if you don't I guess.
Good hunting,
Mr. (way too many Chuck's floating around) RiceComment
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Re: Could be Brad
Hmmm, Chuck, upchuck, and rechuck???Dick WhittingtonComment
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Careful There, Pappy...
You know what they say about jolly old, bearded, pony-tailed elves that live in glass houses and throw stones...Comment
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Re: "Re-Fried Chuck" is more like it *NM*
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