ST-2 Corvette Carnage Teardown (pics might be graphic to some)
07-24-2013, 03:34 PM
#1
Racer
Thread Starter
ST-2 Corvette Carnage Teardown (pics might be graphic to some)
I finally had time to start tearing down the Corvette last weekend. I'm definitely going to need some new aft frame rails and a new rear tub. It looks like the frame is fine forward of the sub-frame, but who knows once it is removed. I fear the frame by "boing" or spring once the sub frame is unbolted.
My next step is to take it to a frame and body shop. I've been recommend First Class Autobody by most of the Vette mafia. Anyone else have any other suggestions in Socal? Keep in mind, I don't need this repaired to Concours d'Elegance or NCCC Bloomington standards. I just need it track ready.
My next step is to take it to a frame and body shop. I've been recommend First Class Autobody by most of the Vette mafia. Anyone else have any other suggestions in Socal? Keep in mind, I don't need this repaired to Concours d'Elegance or NCCC Bloomington standards. I just need it track ready.
Last edited by jimtway; 07-24-2013 at 03:36 PM.
07-24-2013, 04:57 PM
#2
Le Mans Master
Oh Man! I feel your pain! It really sucks repairing a wrecked car! Hopefully, you weren't hurt.
It appears as though someone didn't get whooaaed up behind you.
It appears as though someone didn't get whooaaed up behind you.
07-24-2013, 06:21 PM
#3
Racer
Thread Starter
Here's the video. I exited track left after an off and on after T4 at Laguna. The video cutoff right before impact unfortunately.
07-24-2013, 09:53 PM
#4
Here's some thoughts:
The frame rearward of the rear most crossmember attachment is not important in terms of alignment, etc. It is important however for it to absorb incidents like you experienced. You can make sure it is straight from there foreward and cut off the rear part. Replace with common tubing, etc. by a good fabricator. Just make sure it is not too strong so that if something like this occurs again it will sacrifice itself, like the existing one did. There is opportunity there to remove some weight if you desire to do so. Also, it wouldn't be a bad idea to build wing mounts further forward so they don't get damaged in minor rear bumps that would only damage the rear bumper beam. Heck, you could even build the rear section to be bolt on so it is easier to replace. Aluminum is another possibility.
The frame rearward of the rear most crossmember attachment is not important in terms of alignment, etc. It is important however for it to absorb incidents like you experienced. You can make sure it is straight from there foreward and cut off the rear part. Replace with common tubing, etc. by a good fabricator. Just make sure it is not too strong so that if something like this occurs again it will sacrifice itself, like the existing one did. There is opportunity there to remove some weight if you desire to do so. Also, it wouldn't be a bad idea to build wing mounts further forward so they don't get damaged in minor rear bumps that would only damage the rear bumper beam. Heck, you could even build the rear section to be bolt on so it is easier to replace. Aluminum is another possibility.
07-24-2013, 10:46 PM
#6
Safety Car
07-27-2013, 11:39 AM
#7
Racer
Glad you weren't hurt! Hope you get it all worked out soon. I have enjoyed watching your videos. Let us know how it goes and who you use for the fab work. I will be looking for a cage soon as I just moved to LA.
07-29-2013, 08:19 AM
#8
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That sucks big time, lots of carnage at Mid Ohio Yesterday only one of 7 cars got out un scaved
07-29-2013, 09:43 AM
#9
Le Mans Master
07-29-2013, 11:03 AM
#10
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If your interested, I have a rear frame section I cut off to back half a drag car that might be helpful to you. PM me if your interested and I'll send you some pics of what I have.
good luck with the rebuild, it's all just nuts n bolts..
good luck with the rebuild, it's all just nuts n bolts..
08-01-2013, 02:04 AM
#12
Racer
Thread Starter
Here's some thoughts:
The frame rearward of the rear most crossmember attachment is not important in terms of alignment, etc. It is important however for it to absorb incidents like you experienced. You can make sure it is straight from there foreward and cut off the rear part. Replace with common tubing, etc. by a good fabricator. Just make sure it is not too strong so that if something like this occurs again it will sacrifice itself, like the existing one did. There is opportunity there to remove some weight if you desire to do so. Also, it wouldn't be a bad idea to build wing mounts further forward so they don't get damaged in minor rear bumps that would only damage the rear bumper beam. Heck, you could even build the rear section to be bolt on so it is easier to replace. Aluminum is another possibility.
The frame rearward of the rear most crossmember attachment is not important in terms of alignment, etc. It is important however for it to absorb incidents like you experienced. You can make sure it is straight from there foreward and cut off the rear part. Replace with common tubing, etc. by a good fabricator. Just make sure it is not too strong so that if something like this occurs again it will sacrifice itself, like the existing one did. There is opportunity there to remove some weight if you desire to do so. Also, it wouldn't be a bad idea to build wing mounts further forward so they don't get damaged in minor rear bumps that would only damage the rear bumper beam. Heck, you could even build the rear section to be bolt on so it is easier to replace. Aluminum is another possibility.
I'm also pondering bolting on the rear tub as well. If I do my own structure, crash impact absorption will be key to sizing. Luckily I have some experience with my job and schooling in that subject.
08-01-2013, 02:19 AM
#13
Racer
Thread Starter
08-01-2013, 02:23 AM
#14
Racer
Thread Starter
I don't know anyone in Orange County, but a lot of good work is being done by Blackbird Fabworx in San Fernando, and TC Design in norcal
08-01-2013, 02:07 PM
#16
Le Mans Master
The tub, I don't know about.
I haven't broken that, yet!
08-01-2013, 02:49 PM
#17
Burning Brakes
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08-01-2013, 02:52 PM
#18
Le Mans Master
08-01-2013, 03:40 PM
#19
Safety Car
Technically you can't remove the entire tub. You can only remove the spare tire tub i.e. the center well and then cover it. Removing more costs you mod factor.
"6b) Removal of the spare tire floor section of the rear hatch space and either
replacement with a sheet metal cover or placement of a fuel cell is permitted without
an additional Modification Factor"
"6b) Removal of the spare tire floor section of the rear hatch space and either
replacement with a sheet metal cover or placement of a fuel cell is permitted without
an additional Modification Factor"
08-01-2013, 03:55 PM
#20
Burning Brakes
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Technically you can't remove the entire tub. You can only remove the spare tire tub i.e. the center well and then cover it. Removing more costs you mod factor.
"6b) Removal of the spare tire floor section of the rear hatch space and either
replacement with a sheet metal cover or placement of a fuel cell is permitted without
an additional Modification Factor"
"6b) Removal of the spare tire floor section of the rear hatch space and either
replacement with a sheet metal cover or placement of a fuel cell is permitted without
an additional Modification Factor"