Hi everyone, glad I have found this forum! I do have a question that I hope someone can help out on....I have a '76 Vette that I am going to start going through from top to bottom. Depending on what I find as far as frame rot, where can I go to find a good replacement? I have seen an ad somewhere for a "tube" frame, just didnt know what all my options are or if anyone had some sugestions on this. Hopefully the frame will be good enough to keep and add upgraded parts to improve handling/steering/traction. Thanks in advance for your help.

Dave

 

For a factory replacement, only one company makes new reproduction frames.

http://www.vetteproducts.net/

Tube frames are a whole different ball game using late model suspension and driveline components.

 

Welcome!

The first question which you may already know is what do you want to accomplish (longer term) and how much you want to spend. Yes, improve handling/steering/traction, but to what end.

There are many stock frame replacement available, both steel and stainless steel. There are replacements with conversions for C4/5 style front and rear suspensions, and there are tube-frames that utitlize later suspensions (and/or drivetrains and engines).

I went with the tube frame from SRIII Motorsports (www.sriiimotorsports.com). Many have used the "Street Shop" Frame. Then there are also good used stock frames available.

A complete rolling tube frame with suspension and rear is going to run about 10-13k depending on what work you can do yourself. The StreetShop stock style replacement with C4/5 Suspension will probably be close to that and perhaps someone who has used one can chime in.

I would read through many of the posts both here and in the C1/2 forum where there are many threads on the subject of replacement frames. There are pros and cons to each choice, so I would become very informed before making a purchase.

Whether you can do the work yourself or have to farm it out will of course have a big impact on cost.

My SRIII

 

Nice frame! I am building the car for street use mostly. I might take it to the strip a few times just to see what it can do, but mainly just beating up on Mustangs. I will probably just keep the motor naturally asparatied (sp?) wether I keep the small block or go with a big block. Need advice on upgrades for the suspension and steering to if anyone can chime in. I will be doing as much of the work as I can. Thanks again.

Dave

 

Just my .02, but if you are a newbie to the hobby, as I am, stick with a stock frame configuration. There is a wealth of information on both this forum and in such publications as the assembly manual etc. that will guide you in every aspect of restoration and upgrade. Once you get a little experience, then shoot for the exotic. Good Luck!