66 C10 Crossmember Help

Discussion in '1960-1966' started by copout27, Apr 14, 2012.

  1. copout27

    copout27 Member

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    Jan 28, 2010
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    Location:
    Ormond Beach Fl
    I've seen an aftermarket crossmember (the one the drive shaft passes through) which also is cut out on either side for the exhaust to pass through. Can the original crossmember be cut out for the pipes to pass through without affecting the crossmember?
    Thanks.
     
  2. Rich 5150 69

    Rich 5150 69 Member

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    Nor Cal
    Yes you can but should be boxed with a thru tube for your exhaust, this is a stress point for your suspension.
     
  3. copout27

    copout27 Member

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    So if I cut say 4 inch holes I should weld in a 1 inch long or so tube for support and slide the exhaust through the tubes?
     
  4. Lakeroadster

    Lakeroadster Member

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    Great thread gentlemen.

    I would suggest cutting the opening in the crossmember for 4" std. wall pipe. (4-1/2" od. x 0.237" wall thickness). Then weld 3" long pieces of 4" pipe into the crossmember. The 4" pipes tie the upper and lower web of the crossmember together and thus retain the stock strength.

    Since the rear trailing arms also attach to this crossmember maintaining it's structural strength critical.

    Hope this helps.

    John
     
  5. copout27

    copout27 Member

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    Location:
    Ormond Beach Fl
    Thanks so much. You guys gave me the info I needed and I can do the modification and save $200. it would cost for an aftermarket crossmember.
    Thanks again.
     

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