c3 body shims

[Lynn S.]

Ready to install the body on my 69 coup frame but have no idea how many shims to use per mount. Car was in pieces when I purchased and no idea how many shims were on the original car. Also what do I do about the shim marks on the frame .. Again thanks,Lynn Schwebach

[Jack H.]

Re: c3 body shims

The factory process was accurate, fast, easy. BUT, you'd need to have their special tooling which, of course, nobody does....

The frame was laid on a special fixture. The highest/tallest of the mounting pads was identified and assy worker(s) simply measured the 'gap' at each of the other pads to determine how many shims were required to establish a level mounting plane for the body.

You CAN duplicate this process if think and work at it... Some have used optical or laser transits to shoot from the highest/tallest pad to each of the others (using a previously shimmed pad when line of sight from the 'master' pad is blocked).

Or the 'good ole boy' process works too! That's where one who has prior experience to develop a 'feel' does the job. Essentially, the body is laid on the frame and the expert takes a walk around the car, eye balling body gaps, seam lines, Etc. He, shims "as required' to obtain the flat/level appearance he's looking for.

The first method is scientific, but it takes the appropriate tools and time. The second method is 'seat of pants', but don't knock it! Guys with the appropriate experience do EXCELLENT work.

I'd suggest you ask for help/advice from your local NCRS chapter members who've been there/done that. What, you're not a member of a local NCRS chapter? This is the time to join and get active!