64 roadster chassis vs 65 roadster chassis

[Andrew P.]

Hi All,

My 64 came from Detroit and virtually all of the underside steel is in need of serious attention.

I just purchased a clean '65 rolling chassis Vin#194675S111805. We're going to sacrifice her to the needs of my '64. My frame person will scavenge what he needs to restore my frame back to A1 condition.

Beyond this, I realize that, with disk brakes, there are numerous differences between the years. What other (if any) chassis components can I use from the '65? The condition of the 65 components is much better than my 64.

Thanks for the help!

-Drew

[Martin T.]

Re: 64 roadster chassis vs 65 roadster chassis

I believe the front cross member is different. There is a double dip/lip on a 65.

[Andrew P.]

Re: 64 roadster chassis vs 65 roadster chassis

Hi Martin,

All the frame stuff is up to the frame guy. My question was more along the lines of what "else" can I use off he '65? Any suspension components the same? Spindles? Traiiling Arms? Shocks/Springs/Etc????

Thanks!

-Drew

[John H.]

Re: 64 roadster chassis vs 65 roadster chassis

Depends what your objectives are for the car - if you're not concerned about judging points, you can use the entire rolling chassis as-is with a '65 master cylinder. If judging is in your plan, you can use just the bare frame and install all your suspension/brake components on it; they may or may not notice the relief in the front crossmember or the indentations in the outside of the rear rails or the rear jounce bumper brackets.

[Jack H.]

Re: 64 roadster chassis vs 65 roadster chassis

Front cross member changed in early '65 in anticipation of the 396 BB engine. The depressions for clearance of the harmonic balancer are in different places for SB vs. BB, so the running change in early '65 generated a front cross member that would accept either SB or BB engine.

Therefore, IF the intent is put a factory original '64 frame under a '65 396, she won't fit, mon! If the intent is to put a '64 frame under a '65 SB, there's no problem. Plus, if the target '65 is early enough, the '64 donor frame is probably dead nut on...