Vintage Mustang Forums banner
1 - 20 of 57 Posts

JWScarab

· Registered
Joined
·
574 Posts
Discussion starter · #1 · (Edited)
I saw Shaun on here mentioned using the convertible frame rail boxes inside of the rockers - instead of using sub frame connectors. This allows for more room underneath for exhaust, etc - esp especially if you were to go out the sides with exhaust like a Boss302 T/A racer.

Can anybody give their thoughts on this? Pros/Cons?
 
When he mentioned it, I looked into it. Seems pretty easy if your car is totally apart and you're already repairing/replacing panels. Doesn't seem worth it at all if your car is nice.
 
Discussion starter · #3 ·
Im down to a shell. Going into body shop mid/late October for metal work. I was going to have him weld in subframe connectors, but I am wondering if this would be better.

Basically looking for info on if it is a better setup performance wise once it is all said and done?? Car flex, etc.
 
If you go with the 'vert frame rails, be sure to also convert over to the 1 piece seat base. Then also add the lower seat pans used specifically on 'verts and also include the panel that ties both lower pans together. This is probably the best crossmember you could add between two frame rails.

Personally I like the inner rocker / frame rails better because they tie into both torque boxes whereas traditional subframe connectors tie into the front floor support, which in reality is not really a frame rail. Sure they offer some additional support, but would be better if they actually connected frame rail to frame rail.

I've had the inner rockers installed for over 5 years 5600 street miles. Very happy with this mod.
 
When he mentioned it, I looked into it. Seems pretty easy if your car is totally apart and you're already repairing/replacing panels. Doesn't seem worth it at all if your car is nice.
I put mine in on a fully painted 66 coupe, didn't touch up any of the bodywork. Removed the fenders, front suspension, carpet and seats. Some touch up painting on the floor (inside and out) and torque box was all that was required.
 
How much weight will the convertible rockers, floor, seat pans etc. add to the car as opposed to subs?

I have to admit that Shaun's conv floor idea has really thrown my plans for a loop...

John
 
I put mine in on a fully painted 66 coupe, didn't touch up any of the bodywork. Removed the fenders, front suspension, carpet and seats. Some touch up painting on the floor (inside and out) and torque box was all that was required.
Good to know. It seemed more involved in the link you posted.
 
How much weight will the convertible rockers, floor, seat pans etc. add to the car as opposed to subs?

I have to admit that Shaun's conv floor idea has really thrown my plans for a loop...

John
Isn't it funny how you read about what others have done and you get to thinking it sounds good:wave: boy mine has changed a couple of times already!!!!!!!!!:thumbsup:
 
I put mine in on a fully painted 66 coupe, didn't touch up any of the bodywork. Removed the fenders, front suspension, carpet and seats. Some touch up painting on the floor (inside and out) and torque box was all that was required.
I'm with Shaun! Did it to my "finished" 66 coupe without damaging the paint (much.. couple bo-bo's). I was redoing my floors and interior at the time anyway....
 
My wife's 68 Fastback has been "convertibleized" for the past 5 years, unfortunately, that is the most finished part of the car so can't tell how it works yet. We put in new torque box's as they were needed, the inner rockers, full interior seat risers and the underfloor seat pans. Sure makes for a much "stronger" looking setup.
David.
 
How much weight will the convertible rockers, floor, seat pans etc. add to the car as opposed to subs?

I have to admit that Shaun's conv floor idea has really thrown my plans for a loop...

John
I wish I had but I got to welding before weighing anything!

I think you need to look at it as 'more effective' weight adding than just weighing more than subframe connectors. At least the additional weight is low down...
 
I saw Shaun on here mentioned using the convertible frame rail boxes inside of the rockers - instead of using sub frame connectors. This allows for more room underneath for exhaust, etc - esp especially if you were to go out the sides with exhaust like a Boss302 T/A racer.

Can anybody give their thoughts on this? Pros/Cons?
I want to be lazy this morning...where is this original thread so I can decide what to do with my Tin Man SFC I have in the shed...
 
My convertable had the inner rockers but still benefitted from SFC's.
One issue you may have if going to later models seats like I did, 96 Mustang seats, there is less width available with the inner rockers. I had to shift the seat towrds the driveshaft tunnel.
 
My convertable had the inner rockers but still benefitted from SFC's.
One issue you may have if going to later models seats like I did, 96 Mustang seats, there is less width available with the inner rockers. I had to shift the seat towrds the driveshaft tunnel.
Are you referring to the inner rocker being too close to the seat bottom?
 
The inner rocker are about 2-1/2 to 2-3/4" wide. My fox seats fit, but I do need to trim the cover for the reclining mechanism. The footwell area is no issue. Even with 3 pedals, there is plenty of foot/legroom. And yes, you will need 'vert kick panels, and 'vert sill plates too.
 
1 - 20 of 57 Posts