I have a 51 Mercury and am doing a frame off. But, some people tell me that I need to re-enforce the body with cross bracing so the body won't twist and others say theres no need to brace. Not using a rotisserie will be using a gantry crane to lift body and putting on horse to clean under carriage. Can anyone tell me the proper way to do it? Thanks
If the body is solid-no rust in floors ,rockers,etc-then it is safe to remove without bracing. If structure is compromised, then you better brace-or fix body structure before removing body from frame. Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
When the bodies were manufactured and assembled to the chassis they did not need, nor have, supplemental bracing. As others have said, if the body is solid, not rusted in any structural area, and the doors are on it, it does not need additional bracing. If the body is weakened from rot, follow the advice in post #4. Ray
I would use a speader beam to pick the body. In other words pick the body up from four points with the slings ,chains or ropes in a vertical position so you do not squeeze the body.I just did this this week with my 40 ford coupe. I will try to remember to post a picture tomorrow.
If it's a convertible or a rustbucket brace it. If it's a solid closed roof car then crossbracing is not needed but as others have noted pay attention to where you pick it up from and how the load's applied. Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
If a good solid body no, if there are rusty sills and floor etc, yes. If like this 42 Chevy PU I'm doing, Yes. A bit overkill but you know what I mean.
I have worked on a '50 Merc. I pulled it off the frame with no bracing. The bodies are well made, reminded me of a tank. Neal
NO NEED TO BRACE if it's structurally sound. Keep the doors closed and tack weld short strip of steel on inside of car between B-pillar and door to hold doors in place. Then lift off the body.
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