My driveline, pedals, wiring, and front end sheetmetal are off. Its time to attack the frame in preparation for the 302 / AOD install. Before I take the time to clean, blast, and paint the original crossmembers that the Y-block sat on, should I just remove them. I guess the real question is: will this driveline combo with staight axle and leafs fit without having to remove the stock crossmembers.

Pig

 

Pig,
I can't answer whether your engine/tranny combo will fit without modifying the crossmembers, but I will advise you not to remove the transmission crossmember, unless you put something substantial in its place. I have seen a couple of trucks that the owners removed the tranny x-member to make room for whatever drivetrain and the frame ended up twisting out at the top, due to the cab mounts being canti-levered off the top of the frame. Most clips or suspension crossmembers have enough structure to prevent this from happening, once it is all welded in place. You might be able to notch the tranny x-member or modify it in some way, but since you said you were running a straight axle, I would not remove it.
Good Luck!

 

Thanks for your thoughts.

I will leave them in until I trial fit the eng/tranny. I thought maybe the new engine and tranny mounts may provide enough support.