Well, after I realized how chicken **** my modified cross member was, I decided to use what I learned from it as a template for a new one fabbed from scratch. It resulted in 1.5” more clearance from the bottom of the cross member to the ground and a way stronger cross member.
I don’t have proper tools for cutting the metal, but with some patience I was able to get it done with a chop saw, jigsaw and metal blades, cut off wheels for the angle grinder and die grinder and time. This is really cheap and easy to do. I used my Hobart Handler 140 flux core welder which is good for max 3/16”, but I was able to get at all of it from both sides so it is definitely strong enough. The final shape differs slightly from what is shown below as this is taken from the original modded mount where the new fabbed mount is 1 1/2" shallower.
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I used a Trans mount from a T-350 Chevy Trans common in lots of 70s cars and I don’t know what else. I needed to egg out the mounting holes a little to get it to bolt on, but it was no big deal.
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I have a bit more grinding and clean up to do, as well as finish boxing in the bottom but I test fitted it several times during the fab process so I know I will be happy with it when done.
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I could have left a bit more metal in the U portion that surrounds the transmission, so I'll trace my plates once done and add the additional beef to the templates. Anyone interested in the templates is welcome to them when they are done.
Cley
