body alignment seems off
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Joined: May 2005
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body alignment seems off
MY '77 seems to have the body out of alignment. The two rear body mounts look very bad and not centered on the frame brackets. Is this somthing that commonly happens? The body seems to be moved to the left in back. The car is in alignment, a four-wheel alignment was done. The two body mounts in front of the rear wheels look ok. The suspension, including TA's are all new.
If this body mis-alignment is something that can happen, can it be corrected? Any feedback would be much appreciated. -Jeff
If this body mis-alignment is something that can happen, can it be corrected? Any feedback would be much appreciated. -Jeff
Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: May 2005
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the doors close properly and line-up well. I don't know about any rear-end accidents. I have owned this car for about a year. Can the body shift position on the frame? Or, is this probably a frame issue? The body appears shifted to the left in back. During the rear suspension rebiuld I replaced rear TA shims as I removed them. The first readings from the the alignment rack showed the rear toe was out as if both rear wheels were turning left. I was able to re-shim it back into spec's. One side took moving 1/4" worth of shims, the other side took moving 1/8" worth of shims. Not sure what to do next. I may just bring it to a body shop
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Instructor
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yes, both rear body mounts are rusted. I've been through the procedure for replacement and was wondering if I will be able to move the body back into position before tightening the mounts. The two mounts in front of the rear wheels will also be loose.
I am doubting that I will be able to move the body but, looking for comments from people who know. Thanks, Jeff
I am doubting that I will be able to move the body but, looking for comments from people who know. Thanks, Jeff
Instructor
Joined: Apr 2004
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From: Grand Island NY
What is your reference in saying the body is off in the rear? I would replace the rear mounts and then see where you are. If the body needs shifting, you need to loosen all mounts, maybe not the radiator mount, and move it where it needs to be. Believe you have about a ½” of slop in the mounts.
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Thread Starter
Instructor
Joined: May 2005
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Thanks for the responses. For reference, I'm looking at the wheel on the right extending outward past the body and the left is not. Also, the rear body mounts, the left mount is further away (outward) from the frame rail than the right is from its frame rail. Lastly the rear compartments (batt, jack, etc) of the body are closer to the left frame rail than the right. I was on a budget buying a C3 vette and looked at some that were in pretty bad shape. I saw one that appeared to have a similar alignment issue. This one was so bad I just walked away. The one I bought was a 4 spd for $2800.00. The frame is good and I just finished rebuilding all suspension. I was hoping that the appearant mis-alignment was a suspension issue but all is good and in alignment.
