frame tubing wall size

starting my build and have access to 2"x3" tubing, 3/16" wall...using this for a t coupe with sbc, etc...I know it will work but do you dewds think this wall thickness is a bit too much...using heavy wall bones etc...tell me what you think. tia

 

If you are going to buy then use 1/8" wall. But if it is free it is certainly worth considering. Figure a 50% weight penalty.

And if you will be running some serious horse power or carrying big block/hemi weight 3/16 might be prudent.

 

wouldn`t use any thing less...

 

I had the same question so I checked out what production frame builders are using and that is .120 or .125 wall. It didn't seem to matter if it was a tube frame or formed rails.

 

We use either .120 or .195, so I won't tell you not to. If weight is not a concern, I prefer the heavier wall because it "feels" better. I like working with it and it seems to be more rigid, especially where you have less triangulation to stiffen things up.