Did the effort of Z'ing the front rails provide that much more "elbow room"? How'd you integrate the new tubing with the thin OE rails? Just curious--I'm about to start welding on the rear of my '47's frame, which is thin as paper.
Looks good, very nice work. Did you have to deal with any smiles in the roof? My pontiac seems to have been danced on by those gremlins from the motorcycle insurance commercial. I'm probably going to need some help with how to get that giant expanse of sheet metal smoooooooooth.
BEAUTIFUL work ... Always liked these cars. Noticed a Henry J or Kaiser -like center grille bar on the wall. Will you be using that on this car?
Rob, the main advantage of the Z is the fact that the "negative camber" look iwhen aired out is avoided. Also, the front crossmember would have hit the ground first if I would have left everything where it was. I don't really have a good answer for you on the thin frame rail thing. I used 3/16" plate for all the frame gussets and mods, with "fishplating" on the inside of the rails both at the front Z and the rear kickup. I think Chevrolet used 12 or 14 gauge for their frames...it is some thin stuff. By using 3/16" for all the new pieces, I'd say it's got to be at least as strong as the factory frame, but probably stronger.
Yep! If you can find a picture of the Barris-built "Ralph Testa Merc", then you'll see pretty much what I have planned. I temporarily hung the passenger door, as well as the fenders, hood, and core support on the car for some mock-up pictures today. I haven't moved the rear wheelwells yet, so I just let the air out of the rear tires to simulate the aired-out stance. It still has another inch or so to drop in the back. Here's a pic: And here's another quick and dirty photoshop of what I'm thinking of for the top. I'm planning on taking out somewhere around 4". I'll be using the Packard side spears I've got taped on in the pics. Thanks for all the kind words guys.
Dang Brian.....I've been following your work for a while now. It's amaizing how fast you've grown your skills. Impressive!! Very Impressive!!
That, my friend is class...pure, unadulterated CLASS !! I take off my hat to you, TOP STUFF !! Is this gonna be a keeper ? Rat'
Man, that is sweet. I love your projects. Don't think I love the spears (front tips look a bit heavy) but, I'm happy to wait til it's finished and be proven wrong! And the chop is GOOD.
Damn that thing is sharp, everything is top notch and i agree its gonna be a mag cover getter for sure.
bass,congrats on such a nice project.the work i'm seeing is top notch.you should be stoked. keep up the good work. -danny
Stop Posting pics of this build!!!!!!!! Their just way too badass. I cant handle it. Seriously Your a RULER!!
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