Rick Iverson

Gents;

I am considering a 1971 project that will need a replacement chassis.



I want to do it correctly, so what do I need to know? The car has:
ps; pb; automatic.

V/r

Iverson

hwcoop

major job, you will probably need $20k to do a half decent job and about 1-2 years time, also you will probably never get the money back out.
But if you enjoy working on cars it can be very gratifying
Requirements: Decent workshop, understanding spouse/girlfriend, very good assortment of tools with access to presses, sandblasters, compressor, decent bank account, good neighbors who don't mind all the clamour and commotion when your car buddies are over :-)

Alan 71

Hi I,
And, the frame for a car with an automatic transmission has a removable transmission crossmember while the frame for a 4-speed car has a welded in transmission crossmember.
So for originality's sake you should be looking for an automatic frame.
I'd look for a 69-72 frame, from a car that had automatic transmission.
LOT'S of fun in front of you if you undertake this!
Regards,
Alan

0Corvettes by George

I have a good, straight, no rust frame/chassis, automatic, from a '69.
Near San Antonio, Texas.
Will likely have other parts for your project.
George
210-748-4693
Geopar@gvtc.com

2bubbas

I did a replacement frame under our 1972- agree that you'll never get your money spent back if to sell- selling ours and hoping to get .33 on the 1.00-

Alan 71

Hi,
Doesn't the percentage of the money that you get back at sale time have a lot to do with what you paid for the car, what the car is when you sell it, and what in the car you've put the money into?
Regards,
Alan

Bob K

I hope you restore it and have a great time doing it.

I have a business and the goal is to make money.

I have multiple corvette's in various stages of restoration. The goal was to enjoy playing with them, making a profit was never in the plans.

I've met my goals so far. I don't even think about what I've spent. It would drive me to drink, which would only make me spend on booze instead of parts.

Bob K.

bj1k

Don't forget to check the birdcage. If the frame is at the point of needing replacement the birdcage might also be bad. Not always the case but better safe than sorry so check it out.

hwcoop

I tend to get too emotional with my cars and can't put a price on the enjoyment from them, the people i've met with them and the smiles i see from people enjoying them at shows etc. Though it would be nice to recoop some of the costs

hunt4cleanair

You may wish to define what "correct" means to you. To some, correct may not mean a Corvette chassis restored to its original factory configuration but rather modified from modest upgrades to extremes.

oldgto

Does it need to be replaced.... or could it be repaired? I`ve seen a few threads where frames have been rescued with anywhere from a few small patches... to complete sections welded in.
Is there any chance you could patch this one up?

Easy Mike

FWIW: you may want to reconsider the project. A frame replacement is a major undertaking. A Have To frame replacement is usually a deal breaker for most folks.

7T1vette

You didn't buy a "project". You bought a 'parts car' which needs the other parts. And, your question would indicate that you have little experience with such a situation.

If you really want to dig in and bring this car back to life, good for you. But, be prepared for what you have in store (lots of time; lots of money).

If, after considering this a bit more, you decide you bit off more than you can chew, just sell the car for what you have in it and plan to purchase a car in better condition the next time.

Even wrench-monkeys who have many years of experience and LOTS of special tools and equipment give up on "projects" like what you now have. Be absolutely sure that this is what you really want to do before you get too far down the road.

COSPEED

This would be your most economical route....if you need, I have a perfectly good gas tank and radiator as well cheap. (PM me) The "egg crate" years are very desirable, and it all depends on your end goals.

AT the time upgrade to rack & pinion kit and consider coil overs if you want to make it a nice driver.

COSPEED

Also, if you got it for a great price and just want to turn it for a profit without doing anything to it, PM me!

bj1k

With all of the frame sections available most frames can be repaired or rebuilt . When I ran my restoration shop I rebuilt many frames that were severely rusted and after sandblasting and painting , they were like new. Be aware though this is not a cheap process but for someone that can do their own work it can be done for a reasonable price. Measurements and alignment are critical for body alignment so it does take some skill level .

Rick Iverson

As I understand, it is a no hit car with a badly rusted chassis. I think $3500 will take it.

COSPEED

I may take it if it is a complete car (appears to be) if you don't.