64 Frame Replacement

[Michael Hampson]

I am thinking of biting the bullet and pulling the body on my 64. (Never but a Corvette sight unseen)

The frame is badly rust damaged (and repaired) in the rear kickup area. From the looks of it, the entire rear frame section from the kickups back is heavily rusted and might need replacing.

I would love to hear some opinions on the advantages/disadvantages of repairing the damaged frame sections or replacing the frame with a new or used piece. The frame from the frame rails forward is in excellent condition.

Also, does anyone have any suggestions for suppliers of new and/or used frames (if I decide to replace the entire frame), and frame pieces (if I repair)?

I have all of the proper welding/alignment equipment if I choose to repair. I was even thinking of splicing in a complete used rear frame section from the frame rails back.

As always, thanks so much for your opinions.

Michael Hampson




Vette Photos

[Mike M.]

Re: 64 Frame Replacement

Mike. if you have the tools and fabrication knowledge to replace the rear half of your orig frame , go for it. The rear pieces you need can be bought as repro or you can find a used C-2 frame with front damage and make the splice. might add that damaged frames as i describe, although plentiful in the 70's are now becoming scarce.Whole new repro frames are salty and if you do the work yourself(fabrication that is), you will part with fewer of your greenback friends. good luck, mike

[Jim T.]

Re: 64 Frame Replacement

How much money to spend is really the question. With a nice car like your 64, a brand new frame would be nice to have to really enjoy multi-years of driving pleasure knowing you have a solid frame throughout. You do mention that the front section is excellent. Parts are available to repair from vetteproducts.net to repair the frame as well as new frames. I would at least replace the rear section based on your information. Having to decide which is easier spending the money for a new frame and just lift and move the body on a new frame, or do the repair having the body sitting off the frame for weeks and them painting the frame.

[Dino L.]

Re: 64 Frame Replacement

A rusted frame is only the beginning of what possibly lies ahead.... take a close look at the trailing arms...the birdcage all over closer...look at the differential castings. Check the cross member, look at all of the steel parts they are probably very rusted...

[Len Rayca]

Re: 64 Frame Replacement

Mike; I saw a 64 frame advertised for sale recently. Go to Google and type in Long Island Corvettes. Go to their website and scroll down to "PARTS FOR SALE BY INDIVIDUALS" and you will see an ad for a 64 frame. The email address of the seller is listed as hmfic1@ameritech.net. This might solve your problem.