C3:Frame flex question

[Steve L.]

While doing an engine lift on my 73 coupe,I placed one jack stand midway between the wheel wells on the left side in order to get the engine hoist under and be able to pull the hoist forwarde once the engine was free. The front an back wheels lifted off the ground. At this point, I couldn't close the drivers door(left open before car was jacked up) since the door latch hit the body latch pin.

Is this normal, or is the frame weakened due to rust.

73 coupe since new

[jim34671]

Re: C3:Frame flex question

Steve,
This is not unusual,even on the strongest frame.
Roadsters even worse.
Just ensure you keep your doors.t-tops,etc fitted and closed whenever picking car up,especially from points outside the normal jacking area.
Again,a rusted,weak frame would do even worse.
Jim

[John M.]

Re: C3:Frame flex question

I would think that this sounds normal. My 60 will do that if picked up wrong, and the frames on C1 cars are incredibly stiff! If you do not have rust showing at the rear kick ups then you probably are fine.

regards, John McGraw

[Craig S.]

Re: C3:Frame flex question

Steve - my 66 BB coupe does this too...and the frame is completely rust free and solid. I wouldn't worry...Craig

[Terry M.]

[jim34671]

Re: C3:Frame flex question

Steve,
One more thing...a word of caution..
If ever you have need to run engine with car fully supported on frame stands,be aware that frontal areas of frame will bow downwards significantly due weight of engine,etc...since jackstands placed aft of engine area.
Be aware that fan shround clearances,etc will not be the same and that damage to blades,rad,shroud may occur due to this same frame flex you spoke of.
Jim

[Klaus Friedrich]

Re: C3:Frame flex question

Hi Steve,

that's quiet normal. A friend of mine restaurated a 73 T-top. And after painting it he lifted the front end. The body broke of both sides. Even the frame is free of rust. The front came down approx. 1 inch (measured at the front axle).

Best thing: lift the car only on one side or use a hoist you can drive on (4 column design).

Klaus

[Steve L.]

Re: C3:Thanks all *NM*