Crossmember #3 gusset

[Shane G.]

I was planning on getting a new set of gusset plates for my '64. (the triangle shaped pieces that are on the bottom of the frame in the kick up area) The car has them now, but they are rusty and should be replaced. When I went to order the gusset plates I see that they are listed for late 64 car AFTER 4/21/64. My '64 corvette has a completion date of APRIL 6, 1964. My obvious question is I know that my car originally had them, but if I put them back, would there be a problem from a judging stand point because the car was built two weeks before the supposed cut off date? Thanks, Shane

[Tom B.]

Re: Crossmember #3 gusset - Opinion

Shane,

Since you've been waiting since Wednesday, I guess the best I can offer is my opinion for what you ask.

When you say they are "rusty" and need to be replaced I'm presuming they are in weak or failing condition and not just surface rusted. Just as a side note, have you checked the "insides" of the rest of your frame, too, if the gusset plates are that bad?

Regardless, if you need to replace them and do, and it is as you say, very questionable by AIM or reference standards that your car is supposed to have them, then I would make very good documentation, complete with photos or video, of the original plates. Everything can be questionable from a judging standpoint and I would be prepared for that eventuality with some documented proof. Hope this has helped. TBarr #24014