Diablita
New Member
Howdy all,
Brand new to the site. Restoring my '64 Dart Convertible aka "Betsy" who I have owned since 1985, bought from son of original owner. I had her painted to fix a dent to fender by a hit and run, and it has so far turned into a two year restoration. I had her underside recently blasted to remove the crud so I could see what needs what. Found a big hole in the front cross member where the strut went thru, and apparently it had happened in past on the left, which has been welded. That explains the "clunk" I started hearing when braking.
So I am wondering if anyone manufacturer's new cross member assemblies? I am looking to rebuild the front end, and do the front disc conversion in the next 30 days. I am planning to participate in a vintage car rally, so she needs to 220+ miles and be road worthy. It would be great if anyone could steer me to a LA group or person that has experience with these cars who could advise or for hire? I am a motorcycle racer with some limited mechanical skills, and willing to do dirty work, but I lack the space and right-sized tools for this job.
Also searching for recommendations on which are better kits for the rebuild, bushing, brakes, etc. And if there is any other things I should replace? Planning to keep "Betsy" for another 20+ years, so time for some TLC.
Your help is greatly appreciated, great site!
Diablita
Hermosa Beach
Brand new to the site. Restoring my '64 Dart Convertible aka "Betsy" who I have owned since 1985, bought from son of original owner. I had her painted to fix a dent to fender by a hit and run, and it has so far turned into a two year restoration. I had her underside recently blasted to remove the crud so I could see what needs what. Found a big hole in the front cross member where the strut went thru, and apparently it had happened in past on the left, which has been welded. That explains the "clunk" I started hearing when braking.
So I am wondering if anyone manufacturer's new cross member assemblies? I am looking to rebuild the front end, and do the front disc conversion in the next 30 days. I am planning to participate in a vintage car rally, so she needs to 220+ miles and be road worthy. It would be great if anyone could steer me to a LA group or person that has experience with these cars who could advise or for hire? I am a motorcycle racer with some limited mechanical skills, and willing to do dirty work, but I lack the space and right-sized tools for this job.
Also searching for recommendations on which are better kits for the rebuild, bushing, brakes, etc. And if there is any other things I should replace? Planning to keep "Betsy" for another 20+ years, so time for some TLC.
Your help is greatly appreciated, great site!
Diablita
Hermosa Beach
I think this K-member is on it's last leg. Thanks Dave for the links for replacement options. Wow! That stuff is nice but sure pricey. I'm not racing her, so I think the donor would be a very good option. But after seeing the reinforced FirmFeel version, I have a little envy. I don't think they are going to want my old one. Some before and after pics. 
