Hello to all in the Corvette world!

I have a question and was hoping that someone on here would be able to answer it for me about the differences in the frames used on C3's.

MY QUESTION:
What frames will match up with a 1972?
Are there differences between the manual and automatics?
How do you tell when looking at it which it is and what year it is?
Is there a good aftermarket frame that should be considered?

I'm new to Corvettes, currently have a 75 restoration in progress and just purchased a 72 that was to have been a driver(?). There's nothing special about the 72 other than it's just that a 72, no options. I guess you could say it's rare as it's one of the few cars built or sold as a truely base model Corvette. It is an Automatic, no power windows, no power brakes, no A/C etc.....just a base model 1972 Corvette.

At this point I'm finding more and more issues with the car that were hidden, yes buyer beware. Specifically my main issue is that I've found they did some work on the frame and seems that it's tweaked. Everything I'm replacing seems to be a little off and have found welds that were not factory. I have not checked the measurements yet.

I'm currently thinking about trying to find a frame in good condition and swap the body onto it. I have seen a few frames that look to be in good condition for what seems to be a reasonable price. I do have the factory specs or measurements to be sure the one I purchase is straight but not sure what years to look at.

Any information that someone could share would be helpful.
Thanks in advance!

Craig

 

Craig, any 63-82 frame could be made to work with your 72 body but to avoid having to move body mounts or modify bumper mounts, 68-72 frames would be the easiest. As to the difference between auto and 4 speed frames, that difference is limited to the auto frames having the removable transmission crossmember and not having the little clutch cross shaft bracket. It actually would be better to use an auto frame with either tranny to make removal easier. The easiest way to tell the year of the frame is to look at the top rear of the frame on the drivers side near the #4 body mount. The VIN# should be stamped in this area. There are numerous aftermarket frames available and there is one vendor making new OEM frames from the original tooling, someone will come along with their name. If you are interested as well, I have a completely restored 72 rolling chassis for sale with matching drivetrain for sale in C3 Parts. Here you go.

http://forums.corvetteforum.com/show...olling+chassis


Bill

 

Bill,
Thanks for the information this is a huge help!
Knew with all the restorations on this site someone would have the info.

I must also say WOW, your rolling chassis is outstanding!
Wish I had the funds for it!
I can only hope my 75 turns out half that nice.

Again, thanks for the help!
Craig

 

avenger,put your location in your profile so we know where you are if in florida i might be able to help you

 

Not a problem, and appreciate the offer.

I'm actually located near Boise, Idaho.

 

Here's a link to Corvette Enthusiast (THE best Vette mag!). It details a guy who makes frames from the original dies and jigs. They range from about $3k-4. He also sells partial frames, like the rear part, since that's where most of the rust resides. Good luck.

http://www.corvetteenthusiast.com/

The article is not available online, but it shows the cover of the issue the article is from (it just came out).

 

Thanks for the additional information I'll pick up a copy this weekend. I've seen some incredible frames going under peoples projects.

Work has been keeping me busy lately so haven't made any further progress with mine, or measured it yet.

Hopefully this reading will give me some motivation to do so.

 

Close...69-74 frames will all work easily with 68-72 bumper cars, functionally equivalent if not identical. '68 was a little different, and 75-82 went through many differences, could work with more effort than 69-74.

Steve

 

Steve, so does that mean a 68 frame won't work easily with a 68 body? Just kidding. I am curious, what is different on the 68 frame other than not having the kickup gussets. Is the rear of the frame different around the #4 mounts. The reason I ask is because I have read that a 68 frame will work well with a 67 body. Thanks for the info.

Bill

 

I spent some time investigating all of this a few years ago. At that time Sunshine Corvette in Florida had a bunch of frames to look at. Every single year is different. They're not much different, but it seems that the brackets, etc. changed every year.

This is not as easy as it sounds. It might be easier to find a good frame shop that can handle your tweaked frame. If that's not possible stick to a '72 frame.

Richard Newton

How to Restore and Modify Your Corvette, 1968-1982

Ultimate Garage Handbook