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81 convertible bracing

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Old Apr 27, 2013 | 11:12 AM
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Default 81 convertible bracing

Hey Guys,
I am building an 81 convertible and I'm looking for info. on correct bracing. If anyone has pictures of under dash braces that would be great. On the forum I found some pictures of a 72 vert rear deck lid area and it appears to have an Xbrace between the deck lid spring perches. Is this a stock item or was that added? Any info. is greatly appreciated.


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Old Apr 27, 2013 | 11:50 AM
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Here are the braces.



You will need the transmission hump "saddle".



Not sure what you mean about a rear X-brace.

Last edited by Paul L; Apr 27, 2013 at 11:56 AM.
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Old Apr 27, 2013 | 11:58 AM
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Thanks Paul this helps a lot. Do you know if the xbrace in the photo above is stock or added?
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Old Apr 27, 2013 | 12:54 PM
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Originally Posted by DennisGreen
Thanks Paul this helps a lot. Do you know if the xbrace in the photo above is stock or added?
The AIM shows that brace (poorly) for both the coupe and convertible. So I would say stock.
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Old Apr 27, 2013 | 08:49 PM
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Dennis
I plan on starting a conversion on my 81 in the next week or two. I have read a lot of conflicting info about whether or not the front cross bracing and saddle is needed. I know that GM put them there for a reason, but I plan on fabricating a roll or cross bar that will attach to the bird cage or the frame if needed.
It looks to me like the rear cross bracing in the photo you posted is just the shape of the fiberglass tub.
Jeff

Last edited by Jeffsvettes; Apr 27, 2013 at 08:53 PM.
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Old Apr 28, 2013 | 12:12 PM
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Originally Posted by Jeffsvettes
...It looks to me like the rear cross bracing in the photo you posted is just the shape of the fiberglass tub...
Correct. The X in the pic is the underbody close out panel for the convertible. There is no additional convertible bracking in the rear. All of the bracing is at the firewall.

Dennis: if you want to create your own convertible, my advice would be to purchase an AIM for any year convertibles were in production and follow the factory diagrams for what was required.

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