63 Rocker Support Bracket Installation

[Stephen G.]

My 63 had its rocker support brackets cut off to install side exhaust in its prior life. I'm in the process of a frame off restoration and getting close to removing whats left of the old brackets on the bottom of th bird cage and welding on the new ones.

Any input or hints used by others would be appreciated.

[Tracy C.]

Re: 63 Rocker Support Bracket Installation

I'd use a 3" abrasive wheel in a hand held die grinder to remove the old brackets. Be careful and work the existing weld down with the wheel. When your really close, knock the bracket off with a hammer and chisel. Take care not to gouge the Birdcage.

Work only one at at time and take careful measurments before removing the old bracket. Once removed, grind off the remaining weld from the bird cage and position the new one in it's place. To control "Inboard / Outboard" placement, clamp a straight edge across the remaining tabs of the other brackets. Then nest the new bracket against the inside surface of the straight edge, remeasure fore and aft location, and clamp in place with a deep C clamp. Weld in a pattern that matches the factory job.

When your all done, shoot a little green zinc primer over everything. Most paint supply houses have something pretty close in an spray can.

If you have not purchased the brackets yet, I have a partial 63 birdcage with these pieces intact.

Good Luck,
tc