Back when I got my Chevelle, I didn't do a build thread on Lat-G. Since I'm basically doing a complete overhaul, now is as good a time as any to start a thread.
Here it is in its most recent iteration:
If you have any interest in the build of the former version, you can check it out
here.
Version 2.0 calls for a new chassis (modified stocker), all aluminum 509 BBC, updating the exterior, and updating the interior. Shouldn’t be too much trouble! lol
This is the donor '66 chassis I started with:
Once I got it home, the first thing I did was disassemble it and get it sandblasted.
Then I sprayed some primer on it because I knew it would be a while before I actually got to it.
The other thing I did a few years ago was to purchase a front C5 based clip from Scott Mock. I've seen all the negative threads going around, but I bought this before any of that stuff happened. Based on my measurements, everything on my clip appears to be pretty square, so I'm good with it.
Fast forward to a couple of weeks ago and I actually started! The first step was to install the SPC and ATS components on the chassis so I could locate the spindle location on the table. I wanted to be sure the front wheels ended up in the same spot once I was done. I made these stands that put the hub and rotor at the same height as if the wheels and tires were in place. Once I was satisfied with that, I stripped it down to the frame.
Then I stripped the clip bare and set it on the frame to get an idea of where and how much to cut off.
Next, I rolled it outside the shop and cut out the front crossmember and frame rails fore and aft of the engine location.
With the stock crossmember gone, I was able to place the new one so I could start getting it squared up and in the proper location.
Once I got the clip where I wanted it, I checked tire clearance and there appears to be enough room for a 315! Also, with the upper control arms bolted to the chassis without any alignment shims, caster came in at 5.5* and camber is -1.5*, which gives me room to dial it in with shims.
So this is where I am now...
I still have to tie in the front frame horns and bend arms for the front anti-roll bar. Once that's done, I can move on the rear frame section.