Well Gang . . . has been quite some time since I posted an update on the frame build. I've created all the X-Members (had some 6" stampings done by Shadow Rods - off a CAD drawing). I created a parametric "gusset design" in Inventor - so I could create all the different angles I wanted. I guess I just like gussets - they remind me of airframe designs. I've got about 300 hours in the frame to date . . . with probably another 50 or so to go. The engine is a blown 392 Hemi - real pain in the rear to fabricate everything - with the engine setback, brake/clutch pedals, etc.. I will say that it is a ****load of welding to fit all the gussets, weld both sides (inside and out) and get a TIG torch, gloves and hands in all the funny places. I think I've become a contortionist! Anyway - here yah go . . . have a couple more weeks to finish the frame . . . then onto the suspension pieces.
Very nice work.........very nice. Do you put a box of tissues next to it when people come over so they can clean themselves up afterwards???????? you should think about doing that Can you explain/show how you did the elongated holes with the dimple die look? Please.
I don't have a big enough press to do these elongated holes - with the rolled edges. I met one of the NC programmers from Shadow Rods . . . managed to get him to make me two 8' pieces of the 6" channel - with the holes where I wanted them (sent him a CAD drawing). I had him place the holes such that they would be in the right places when I made my X-members. He has all the dies to do the rolled/dimpled edges. I had a Ch***is Engineering X-member setup, but decided I liked the rolled/dimpled look better and decided to "roll my own".
http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/s...d.php?t=379575 Here is the link to the question I asked............super neat!!!
Thanks guys - much appreciate it! As a backyard builder (like most of the HAMBers), it is nice to make some progress. Sometimes I get bored with all the fabrication stuff . . . I put it down for a few days and then get back at it. Hope to finish the last of the frame stuff this weekend or next. If anybody needs any info on any of what I've done, just PM me. There are always "lessons learned"!
It looks really cool and well done. I don't want to be the ***hole, but I see a lot of places for mud and gunk to collect and create a rust hazard over time.
That is a good point. Given the holes in the boxing plates, I'm going to have a couple drain holes on the bottom of the frame - especially in the center areas - I'll probably "flush" it out at least at the end of the summer. Also, I'm having the frame E-Coated at an automative OEM supplier - specifically to protect the inside of the frame and all the tubes that have holes in them.
Man, That frame is clean somple but really neat ! Keep posting updates as yo continue your build. 41 Dave
You were offering some suggestions - I never take that wrong. When somebody is trying to help you out, you sure shouldn't get ****ty with them (even if sometimes you don't agree). I've learned more things from keeping my eyes and ears open and being willing to listen before I get all opinionated and start running at the mouth. I've had nothing but help on the HAMB . . . and give back as often as I can!
More progress today. I needed a way to finish the front of the X-members - just didn't like the way they looked on the inside. This area of the frame has been a struggle - due to the difficulty of fitting everything, still having room for brake/clutch, wanting things to be strong, etc.. Anyway, decided to use a spare piece of of the oval bellmouth plate and finish the front a bit. It looks a lot better - but I'm still not 100% in love with this section of the frame. (Guess we're all our own worst enemies!). Here yah go:
great job on your frame and like this old guy taught me. make it strong that way u wont brake it and it will last
Dale my man, Id say that is super sano work, but then again, I wouldnt expect anything less than this form a perfectionist like you !! Nice work !! Will make a nice "steady" home for a nasty ***, Donovan headed 392 that will get used....!! Great stuff, good to see the progress amigo. Rat
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