Frames

[Jack J.]

At the National Convention, I was told that a 68(C3) frame would work for a mid-year. Is this true? Thanks in advance.

[Dave F.]

Re: Frames

While anything is possible if you have enough money and time, I was told that it won't work due to body mount differences, along with other issues I don't recall. I am aware of C2/C4 combinations, but I'm sure good fabricator skills are required for that.

[Mike M.]

Re: Frames

C-3 frames have been modified to fit under a C-2 body . if you're an experienced fabricator/welder and have the time, it can be done. if you'll have to pay a pro to do it, buy a used or repo frame.mike

[Dick W.]

Re: Frames

From the difference that I have seen unless you are a very skilled fabricator, buy another frame and Dr Mikie has said

[Stephen W.]

Re: Frames

Yes because the front horns are correct BUT... You need to change the tail section because it tapers down differently at the back end. The early 68's don't have the additional supports at the kick up area either. I believe it was after April 68 they added the supports in that area and they may interfere with the body on a C2.
Now that I've said all that ... I agree with everybody here. Sell the frame to someone who needs a '68 frame and get one from a dry state or spend 3600.00 for a repo. Where were you when I was hunting down a frame for my 68?

[Jack J.]

Re: Frames

Steve, I don't have a 68 frame but I was just asking based on erroneous info that was told to me at the National. Who sells a repro for $3600.00?

[Stephen W.]

Re: Frames

My price sheet is a little old (2002) but it was from Vette Products of Michigan. I spoke to the guy at Spring Carlisle. The story I was told was he Retired from GM and purchased the tooling from GM to build the frames. When I mentioned ZIP Products he laughed and said he was the only one who made the frames and sold them to ZIP products. I saw his work and was very impressed with the quality and attention to detail. He also has all the repair pieces to repair just a section of the frame as well. I'll be seeing him this year to get the 24" side rail section to repair mine. The price of 3,600.00 was for a 1969 4 speed frame. He was also the ONLY one who could actually tell me what the difference in the front frame rails on a 68 vs. a 69 & later C3 frame. I spoke with a LOT of so called "experts" that didn't know what the difference was. He was also the only one who could explain why my 68 has the reinforcements in front of the rear wheels when other 68's don't. Talk to him for 5 minutes and you know this guy knows what he is talking about.

[Dave F.]

Re: Frames

You can get a "new" bare frame through Keen Parts in Cleves, Ohio for $4000 (a quote from last summer).

[John H.]

Re: Frames

Same manufacturing source - Vette Products of Michigan (Neil Porter) makes ALL of the reproduction frames.

[Dave F.]

Re: Frames

I suspected as much, as there can't be as many sources as there are vendors. Thanks John.