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Author
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Topic: '70 ragtop weak links?
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stang106
Gearhead Posts: 189
From: Port Alberni B.C. Canada
Registered: Jul 2001
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posted 12-01-2001 01:03 AM
   
Roger and I just finished welding patches over a rusted seam between the inner rear wheel-well and the floor, about over the torque box. We figured that this junction failed because of an articulation at that point. Since this car will see more race tracks and more horsepower, the question for those who may know is: What are the inherent weak links of this chasis? Do the torque boxes need reinforcing? What else could we be overlooking? We have already welded full length rectangular subframe connectors, Montecarlo bar, and all new suspension components. I will be boxing the spring perches. Would an 'X' brace joining the subframe ends be of any value?
Thanks,
Dave
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Rory McNeil
Gearhead Posts: 390
From: Surrey, B.C. Canada
Registered: Nov 2000
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posted 12-01-2001 02:35 AM
Dave, a buddy of mine did a rebuild of a extremly rotted 70 convert a few years back.The front frame rails were so bad that the steering box pulled out! He put in a 70 Cougar front clip on it (firewall foreward) which had the nice 428CJ style shock towers. He also replaced the rocker rails, floorpans, rear frame rails, torque boxes, & inner& outer wheel houses. Since he was a bodyman, he took it on as a challange, was it ever! It was originally a 250 6 cyl, 3 speed standard, he put in a 351C 4Barrel, 4 speed, & painted it Grabber Blue. He sold it to a guy on the Sunshine Coast (Gibsons, I think) Basically, the converts weak points are anywhere rust hangs out. I think a set of sub frame connectors are a very good idea, Keep in mind, that NHRA requires a roll bar in a convert once it goes 13`s in the 1/4. If going 13`s or quicker is in your plans, I`d put the bar in now, to help maintain rigidity. (nice to have doors that open & close!)  ------------------
78 Fairmont 428 4 speed 10.20@130mph
80 Fairmont 302 5 speed 12.8@105mph
85 Mustang NHRA Stocker under construction, 302 5 speed
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