C3 Frame Differences
02-13-2007, 03:33 PM
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1st Gear
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C3 Frame Differences
Can anyone quickly tell me if there are any differences between a 1976 and 1980 C3 frame? Basically I'm wondering if I can mount a 1980 body onto a 76 chassis? Thanks
02-13-2007, 07:29 PM
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Drifting
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The GM Parts and Illustration manual shows the 63-67 frame as being the same and the 68-82 frame as being the same. That said, I would feel pretty confident in saying you will probably see differences in the transmission cross member and the diff mounting. From what I hear, going with an older diff might not be a bad thing though. If those were the only differences then the body should mount with no problem. I'm sure somebody else will chime in.
02-13-2007, 07:56 PM
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80-82 has the batwing differential so the differential mount is not the same as the 68-77 cars.
75-79 rear bumper shock mounts are different than 80-82.
75-77 gas tank and gas tank mount is different than 78-82.
If you want to mount an 80-82 body on a 76 frame you will have to use the 80-82 style gas tank and gas tank mount. I am not sure if there are any frame mods required for this. Same thing goes for the rear bumper shocks.
75-79 rear bumper shock mounts are different than 80-82.
75-77 gas tank and gas tank mount is different than 78-82.
If you want to mount an 80-82 body on a 76 frame you will have to use the 80-82 style gas tank and gas tank mount. I am not sure if there are any frame mods required for this. Same thing goes for the rear bumper shocks.
