'64 frame replacement

[Dale M.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

Sorry, that was just a typo mistake, My brain did not get to the keyboard. Sorry it should be 63-67 models.

[Jeff B.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

I had a chance to inspect a Vett Product frame side by side by side with an original. It was a 63 frame and the reproduction frame was VERY good. The only thing that stood out as visible was that on the factory frame there is a small open triangle formed where the inner and outter frame rail components separate just behind the upper A-arm. You can see this in the attached picture of this original 64 frame. On the reproduction this was filled in and actually looks stronger and cleaner, but not original. You would have to know what you are looking for and I think many judges would miss it.

[Dick W.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

There are posts on CF forum that detail just that procedure. A fair amount of work.

If you are referring to cutting the VIN out, it is a straight forward procedure for someone proficient with fabrication. I find that on most forums, CF seems to be one of the worst, people tend to over analyze, complicate, don't listen to good answers, make a mountain out of a mole hill, etc.

[John H.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

Dick, I meant modifying a later frame (post 1967) to fit an older body. The cost and availability of later frames sometimes may be an alternative to a new or correct original one. We are talking about splicing and welding. That is only if you have the skill and equipment to do that yourself. Just depends on what you need for an outcome. For most the repo is the way to go.

[William C.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

The Vett Products frame is the only way to go, deal with the "numbers" in any way that suits you and move on, the cost of refurbishing a well-used frame is more than the new one.

[Tom L.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

I spoke to my brother in law yesterday, he has project sticker-shock. He seems to be in on the idea that a new frame or at least a new rear section is the best way to go but would like to see one, or pictures at least. I searched the archives and found very few, does anyone have a picture or two of an early C-2 frame. Thanks again for all the input.

[William C.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

I don't have pictures, but if you call the folks at Vette Products, I'm sure they can help you. I've been involved in a '64 and a '65, an in both cases the specific nuances of each year were incorporated into the reproduction. I don't know where you live, but pickup in Michigan is possible.

[Dale M.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

If you have a copy of the NCRS Driveline, Corvette USA, always has an add with pictures of frames. You can also go to their website, at www.corvetteusa.com. I am not recommending their products as I do not have any experience with them, so i cannnot comment one way or the other.

[Dan D.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

There was a post a few months back, whereby one person noted that a new frame was noticeably heavier than his old frame. He also commented that there was more body flex with the old frame, and his theory was the old frame was heavily rusted on the inside, with much of the original metal rusted away. Also, I believe in the same post it was noted by someone that new frames were MIG welded and not stick arc welded as original ones were. The weld profiles of the different technologies are different and very noticeable.
I am not in the market to replace a frame, but if I was I would definitely buy a new one, section in the VIN # piece from the old one, and question Vette Products on MIG welding. -Dan-

[Tom L.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

Well here's the update. He's ordering a new complete frame from Vette products today. Since it seems nobody had pictures to post of these frames I'll try to get some up in case there are others that are interested.

Earlier in this thread it morphed into a discussion about how to deal with the vin stamping in the frame. Is there anyone that can provide the correct font stamps to re-stamp the frame? I understand that this can be a touchy subject for some, he's not trying to create something that's not there just have the correct vin on the frame. He's hesitant to do the cut out and weld process.

If anyone can help out, that's great, if not I understand. Feel free to contact me using a more private method of communication if needed. Have a great day!!

[Tracy C.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

Just a thought, but if he is ordering a new frame, why not ask Vette Products if they will use the sections from his old frame that has his VIN stamp within the build up of the new frame.....

tc

[Tom L.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

I seriosly think that would be a bad idea. When I looked at the frame he asked me to stand on the crossmember that the snubber bushing bolts to. He then raised and lowered the rear section about 3" in each directiion without effort, it's bad.

[John H.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

Aside from rusty parts, product liability.

[Dick W.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

There was a post a few months back, whereby one person noted that a new frame was noticeably heavier than his old frame. He also commented that there was more body flex with the old frame, and his theory was the old frame was heavily rusted on the inside, with much of the original metal rusted away. Also, I believe in the same post it was noted by someone that new frames were MIG welded and not stick arc welded as original ones were. The weld profiles of the different technologies are different and very noticeable.
I am not in the market to replace a frame, but if I was I would definitely buy a new one, section in the VIN # piece from the old one, and question Vette Products on MIG welding. -Dan-

Nothing that is a production line item is stick welded today. Too labor intensive. Mig is definitely the way to go

[Dan D.]

Re: '64 frame replacement

Dick, there is no question that MIG - and TIG are superior technologies for several reasons. The question is how will it judge. The difference in labor cost for a Corvette frame cannot be that much. -Dan-