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| | | | Joined: Feb 2006 Posts: 222 Shop Shark | | Shop Shark Joined: Feb 2006 Posts: 222 | Hi All, I am going to be installing a small block and 700r4 in my 51, 3600. I have purchased the new engine crossmember and transmission crossmember for the swap. My question is, are the factory engine and transmission crossmembers removed when this is done or do they stay because the new crossmembers are not in the way of the old? I am at the point where I am about to paint the frame and if the original crossmembers need to be removed, or moved, I would like to do so before I paint. And yes Moneypit, I searched and didn't find an answer to the questions.
Rick | | | | | Joined: Oct 2003 Posts: 5,152 Cruising in the Passing Lane | | Cruising in the Passing Lane Joined: Oct 2003 Posts: 5,152 | What front suspension are you running?
If you look at the location of all the crossmembers you'll see they provide stiffness where the leaf spring are mounted to the frame. I've always felt like you can't remove the bellhousing crossmember unless you found a way to replace it, or were changing the front suspension and removing those leaf springs.
So if you are running stock front suspension I'd suggest leaving the crossmember in place and maybe trimming it some for clearance. If you are running an IFS take it out.
But that is just my two cents...
1955 1st GMC Suburban | 1954 GMC 250 trailer puller project | 1954 GMC 250 Hydra-Matic | 1954 Chevy 3100 . 1947 Chevy COE | and more...
It's true. I really don't do anything but browse the Internet looking for trouble... | | | | | Joined: May 2005 Posts: 8,878 . | | . Joined: May 2005 Posts: 8,878 | Steve's got it covered.
The front one stays because it ties the frame and front springs together as well as holds up the radiator and fenders.
The one at the bellhousing is similarly important to tie the frame together at the back ends of the front springs.
Don't remove it unless you have something else to do the same job.
Grigg | | |
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