C1 (1960) body lift questions

[Donald H.]

I know there are a number of threads addressing body lifting. But before I do this, I want to make sure I understand correctly are don't end up breaking my trunk or decklid hinges. I have attached a photo with the trunk hinge point circled.

Do I use this or the decklid hinge?

How do you attached a strap or chain to it? Put one or more bolts or eye-bolts through the hinge holes and attach a strap or chain that way? I really don't want to break any of these

I plan to use the radiator core support for the front lift points.

I can't use the soft top brackets as I have already removed them and the other soft top frame supports. I am going to use a 2 ton cherry picker for the lift.

Thanks,

Don Harris

[Steven B.]

Re: C1 (1960) body lift questions

'Better read the previous posts first. Pics. are from one of them. Lifting by hinges can cause some real damage. Support the car from the underside and brace the door openings. Also, Noland has a book/video on body lifts that are good resources, available through the NCRS Store.

I like your red/red '60. That is the first Corvette I ever rode in.

[Donald H.]

Re: C1 (1960) body lift questions

Yes, I have the Nolan Adams body lift book, and it has some good info, but does not specifically have recommendations for lift points. I can not used the method in the photos you attached as they are using the soft top frame mounting brackets, which I have already removed.

I have been through a number of threads that say they have used the trunk hinges and/or decklid hinges as lift points. I just don't know how they actually attached at that end.

Thanks,

Don Harris

[Gary C.]

Re: C1 (1960) body lift questions

Donald, if it was me I would not use the trunk hinges. JMTCW. Nothing beats 4 or more people. One person in each fender well and another person watching guiding the lift. Short of that many have lifted with straps under the body (careful not to bust the rockers) and a chain hoist. Am sure there are other options, but again using the trunk hinges is not one I'd consider. Gary....

[John H.]

Re: C1 (1960) body lift questions

Donald -

You do NOT want to use the hinges as a lift point; the best lift point in that area is the top frame brackets which are attached to the "pie plate" reinforcements that spread the load over a wider area.

[Richard M.]

Re: C1 (1960) body lift questions

St Louis used a fixture under the rockers on each side. I used a similar process. I would think you could thread 2x's through straps like I have shown and connect to a hoist to raise it up.

I would not use the trunk hinges to lift either.

Rich

[Valeria H.]

Re: C1 (1960) body lift questions

Donald,
The BEST of the BEST on this Forum have replied to your post. I suggest you heed their suggestions. You have been fortunate! Good luck on your restoration efforts.
Valeria