Chapter Two of our “A Dream Realized”  70 Chevelle project will chronicle the installation of the Ladder Bar Rear Sub-frame and the narrowing of the 9” Ford Housing. In order to accommodate the 33”X18.5” rear tires that are planned for the rear of the 70 Chevelle, the fixture welded rear frame that we completed in Part One along with a properly narrowed 9’ Ford housing was the next step in the build process.

If you look closely at the photos, you can see how Ron cut the factory GM frame in such a way as to allow the new 2”X3” frame assembly to be positioned in place while most of the stock frame was still in the car. This will prevent any “twisting or flexing of the body” that would normally occur if you were to remove the entire factory rear frame before installation of the new sub-frame.

Once the new rear sub-frame was completely installed the remainder of the stock Chevelle frame could be cut out and the “monster” rear tires mocked up into position.

Notice the rear body mounts that use “factory style” body mount bushings.

Once the tires were under the Chevelle, a proper dimension could be taken to determine the “finished width” of the 9” Ford Housing. This measurement is critical as you must also consider brake drum/rotor thickness, and quarter panel and frame clearances to determine the final dimensions of the housing.

With our final “housing width” determined; Ron set to work cutting and narrowing the housing. A special “housing narrowing fixture or jig” is used to ensure that the housing stays straight during this process.

All of the Ladder Bar and Coilover Shock Mounts also needed to be positioned properly and finish welded.

“A Dream Realized” Chapter Three will show the installation of the Rear Suspension and the beginning stages of the Roll Cage Installation..

Stay Tuned….