OK, so as I dig around here looking at build threads and car shows I see something that troubles me.
I'm sure this has been discussed before but I have yet to see it.
It may be worth some discussion and may confuse a few and may help few others.
The issue I have noticed is the 2 basic types of Sub frame connectors people are building into their cars.
1. The piece / pieces of tube NOT welded to the floor but running parallel to the floor.
2. Laser cut to match the floor or tube cut into the floor. (either way the point is that it is welded to the floor pan)
So here is the issue I have with this.
The weak point in our little A bodies when it comes to the chassis, is twist between the front and rear frame rails. SO.... The units that are not welded to the floor pan seemingly do nothing more than keep the front and rear rails from separating (stretching the car front to back).
There isn't an issue with these cars when it comes to that.
On the other hand the units that are welded to the floor pan have basically caused "triangulated" structure between the front rail, rear rail and the floor pans. Strengthening the body significantly.
Look at it this way..... Are the existing rails welded to the floor pan? Of course.
Think about the construction of a bridge..... If you just put 4 rails together, 2 on top and 2 on bottom and tied them together only ant the ends, they would sag, twist, and in general move independently. You have to tie them all together (by triangulation as is typical). Its just not enough to run more structure parallel to each other.
I'm sure there are varying opinions on this but I think its important to realize you may very well be adding extra weight rather than strengthening the integrity of you little A body.
Let the opinions begin!!! LOL :toothy7:
