66 C10 Crossmember Help

[copout27]

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.

 

[Rich 5150 69]

Yes you can but should be boxed with a thru tube for your exhaust, this is a stress point for your suspension.

 

[copout27]

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?

 

[Lakeroadster]

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

 

[copout27]

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.