Will a 77 frame fit a 80 body?
Le Mans Master
Joined: Aug 2000
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From: Semper ubi, sub ubi
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Re: Will a 77 frame fit a 80 body? (houstoncajun)
There might be small differences in the frames, mainly having to do with the front and rear bumpers but basically all the frames from 63-82 have the same deminsion and design. Switching to the 80 frame should cause any insurmountable problems, the only thing I can think of other than the bumper attachments is that the transmission crossmember might be different, the later C-3's had a single hole through the X=member for exhaust, and I'm not sure which year it switched. If you have an automatic car, that shouldn't be a big problem since you can probably use your old crossmember.
Melting Slicks
Joined: Jul 1999
Posts: 3,030
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From: White Pine / Dandridge TN
Re: Will a 77 frame fit a 80 body? (houstoncajun)
As best I know the answer is yes. As my username implies, my vette is really parts from many years. My 80 body sits on a 77 frame. I did not do the change, so I can't say with 100% certainty that there are not some mods. Best I can tell they stuck the body right on the frame with no mods.
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Joined: May 2000
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From: Clearwater FL
Re: Will a 77 frame fit a 80 body? (Frankenvette)
It will work but you may have some trouble w/the bumper mounts. What rear end do you have? If you have the aluminum rear end your going to have to change it out for the cast rear end. 63-79 cast 80-82 aluminum.
Thread Starter
Cruising
Joined: Aug 2003
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From: houston tx
Re: Will a 77 frame fit a 80 body? (houstoncajun)
Thanks guys..... And i do have the aluminum rear x over....... I have the assembly manual for the 80 but it does not go into detail on the frame, does anyone know where I can get a detailed schematic of the frame itself for repair/ restoration purposes. I guess what I really need is the leveling points and how to check square and the different lengths of the components that make up the frame.
