re rust hole trailing arms

[Henry A.]

Re: re rust hole trailing arms

Wayne, another source is Roger Gress, Impact, in Grand Rapids, Mich. He built a frame for me and it is excellent. I know he has a 63 core ready to be built...call him to discuss and get photos...he can be reached at his shop during business hours 616-954-9200. Roger has a jig to build a perfect frame...he is also able to produce in a short period of time, something alot of the others are not able to do.

Good Luck, my frame was in a similar condition as yours...it will surprise you as to how bad it is in other areas...I had mine repaired back in 1990 to get me to the point of a body off restoration, which we completed just this year. Let me know if you would like any other information.

[Joe L.]

Re: re rust hole trailing arms

Thanks John. Their email isn't working so I will give them a call Monday.

Wayne-----


In my opinion, the NEW frame is the only way to go. With a used frame, there could be all sorts of difficult-to-identify problems. For example, the frame could have been "straightened" after previous collision damage. Once the area is painted, this may be difficult to later discern. Who would want to buy a car with a previously damaged frame? So, why buy a frame that's been possibly previously damaged and install it on your car? Effectively, it's like transferring the problems of a "dead" car to a car that you want to "live a long life" and be "right". So, how do you KNOW if a frame has had previous collision damage? Like I say, it can be difficult. However, keep this in mind: a LOT of Corvettes have suffered collision damage during their lives. A LOT of these have suffered frame damage, REPAIRED OR UNREPAIRED.

If a used frame were the only option (as it was for many years), then you have to go that route if you need a frame. Then, you HOPE that the frame you're installing is better than the one you're removing. You don't have to do that anymore; new frames are available. Plus, a lot of times, folks want considerably more money for a USED frame, especially a 63-67 frame, than a new one costs. To me, it's utterly ridiculous to pay as much or more for a used frame than a new reproduction-----UTTERLY RIDICULOUS. Of course, guys with used frames for sale don't think so, but that's to be expected.

[Wayne P.]

Re: re rust hole trailing arms

Wayne -

For a GM-licensed new frame, talk to Neal Porter at Vette Products of Michigan (www.vetteproducts.net); he manufactures them from the original GM tooling.

Thanks Henry . Would this shop be approved by DOT to build frames.
This is new to me not sure what to look for . John Hinckley mentioned vetteproducts were GM-Licensed . I had to air chisel out my first bolt behind driver door . 7 more to go. Then I will have to put the rear suspension on to get the car off my lift. I will use my four post to lift body off. What a job. Beach Boys music and oldies on. Had a great afternoon.

[Henry A.]

Re: re rust hole trailing arms

Wayne, I don't know of anybody that is DOT approved. Roger's shop is a licensed auto body repair shop in michigan...they are a long term collision shop that specializes in Corvettes. Neal makes some frame pieces (my understanding is the parts he makes are GM - Licensed) as well as Gary Crump (Caledonia Corvettes). Roger gets his parts from Neal and Gary. He has made a jig to allow the exact reproduction of the frame. Everything on my car bolted up correctly and was in perfect alignment. The car drives as a new car!

I understand your process...you and I knew that at some point the body would come off and the restoration would happen. When I took mime apart my attitude was to do it once so do it right....I cut no corners and am very pleased with the end result.

Good luck with you project...call me if I can help.

[Dick W.]

Re: re rust hole trailing arms

Vette Products IS THE SOURCE for all the new frames being sold by many of the other vendors. Everything fits perfect, never had any problems with alignment or judging.