1968 Firebird Subframe
Once the subframe was completely dissaembled, I took the Marine Clean solution and power washed it down. Once everything was clean, I treated the entire subframe with POR15. I am amazed at this stuff. After following the instructions, it turned out a very nice high-gloss hard finish. I did the same with the control arms and most anything else to do with the subframe.
After the bushings were changed into the control arms, I assembled the new ball joints and mounted the control arms back onto the subframe. New frame mounts for the motor mounts went on as well. Later this week, I will borrow a spring compressor and get the shocks, spindles, and new disc brake conversion mounted on. The plan of attack is to get the subframe and front suspension on so I can set the motor and new Richmond 6-speed tranny in place to see where I need to relocate the tranny mount. I am told by the Richmond folks that it needs to be moved back 3.75 inches and about 9/16 of an inch down. I will have it setting into place to make sure before I make any changes to the cross member.
The suspension went on very nice. I installed a Master Brake power disc brake conversion kit that included a "classic 2 inch drop" spindle with rotors and calipers. All soft lines were included and will be installed later.
A big sigh of relief! If you'll remember back when the floor pans where installed, a very important step was making sure the seat braces were replaced exactly where the factory position was. This was to ensure that the subframe bolts would line up perfectly to the nut contained in the seat braces. Once I rolled the subframe back under the body; I was elated to see the holes match up and bolts went in with out a hitch. That was a GREAT feeling! I can now begin mock-up.
Hope yours is coming along! Hang in there, and don't get discouraged!
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