The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area The HiPo Shop Boxing the Frame

I am going to run a 350/300hp in my 51 3100 truck with a camaro front clip. I think with the 9" f-rd rearend and the 350 tranny that I should box the frame for a more substantial solid frame- is this worth the effort? or would a couple of cross members do the trick? Any info would be great- if so- where can I get a pre-cut steel kit?

I boxed my 39 frame but mostly for the look. Probably not necessary if the front of the frame was boxed when your clip was installed. An extra crossmember would probably do the trick.

Pre cut kits

http://www.progressiveautomotive.com/Boxing.htm

I would definitely consider reinforcing that front end for several reasons: 1) you've added considerably to the total weight of the vehicle; 2) regardless of how good a job you've done structural integrity has to be weakened somewhat by the clip graft and 3) that powerful SBC is going create some significant torsional stress on the frame. My advice box it.
Good luck

Steve, i clipped my 39 with a camaro clip and i plated the stock frame to the clip with plate steel. I also plan on adding some kind of k or x member to the center of the truck to tie everything together to keep them framerails from twisting. Then again this is my first truck project, so what do i know..............Thats why I joined the site....Dale

Steve, I also see that we are neighbors here in Somerset county,probably pass you by in Somerville on Friday nites.

Dale...sounds like a great project...my current project is a '52 Suburban (former Kansas school bus) with a 350/330hp crate and a TH400,MII IFS w/ PS (boxed) and GM power discs all around...other than that it will look absolutely stock.
See you at Somerville in the Spring or at Spring Englishtown...I'll be the guy selling the Chevelle Bumper Jacks.

Excellent info guys, thanks! I think I will box it- can't go wrong- never know when you have the need for more hp.