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Frames

Our frames are round tube, ladder style design just like the originals. To manufacture our frames we use the highest quality raw materials and combine them with the skills and technology of an aerospace workforce.  The result is a frame that is stronger and stiffer than the originals.

Construction

All our frames are TIG welded in a jig to ensure strength and accuracy.  TIG welding is a slower and more complex process than MIG or arc welding and requires a great deal of skill.  The benefit is a nicer, more precise weld.  All of our frames are welded by talented and aircraft certified welders. 

Strength

Our cars come standard with 4” round 0.120" wall DOM main frame rails. The original 427's were made with thinner 0.090" wall tubing.  We have heard owners of original cars complain of the frame sagging after time because of the thinner frame tubes. 

We also offer, as an option on the 289 cars, a 3” tube frame. This 3” frame was original to the 289 cars and uses a transverse leaf spring suspension.

Front Suspension Mounts

These two pictures show our front suspension mounting points.  A great suspension is only as good as the structure it is bolted to.  If the frame is not strong enough, it will twist and flex, therefore changing the geometry of the suspension.  If the geometry is constantly changing the car will behave in an unpredictable manner.  We have gone to great lengths to ensure that our frame is stiff and strong so that it can let the suspension do its job.   The lower control arm mounting points attach directly to the main frame rails.  The upper control arm mounting points are supported by two tubes and strengthened with a gusset plate.  These sides are cross braced with a vertical X member and the frame rails are "tied" together with a 4" cross member.   This set up creates a wide, strong and stable foundation for the front suspension.

Rear Suspension Mounts

These two pictures show the rear suspension mounting points.  The rear mounting points form a box that encloses the differential.  The box is comprised of two vertical round tubes on each side that are strengthened with a gusset plate that ties them together.  The sides are tied together with diagonally braced horizontal tubes that run side to side.  This box ties the rear of the frame together and provides a strong platform to support the rear suspension.  Notice that all of our suspension mounting points are in double shear.  Double shear means that the fastener is supported on both sides of the mounting point, instead of being cantilevered from one side.  Some manufacturers mount their suspensions in single shear.  

Craftsmanship

Having modern materials and manufacturing processes is only part of reason that our frames are so good.  The other part of the equation is that we have a group of skilled employees that combine aerospace training with old-world craftsmanship.   While we use CNC machines wherever possible to ensure accuracy in manufacturing, nothing beats the skill of a true artisan when it comes to making the complex tubing shapes required for these frames.  Not everyone who looks at these frames appreciates the work involved in bending, shaping, fitting and welding tubes like this.  At car shows we can always tell who the metal workers and fabricators are by the way they admire the details on the frames.