Does the frame twisting logic apply here if you fully box the frame? It is not clear here from the discussion if that step matters or comes into play. I would assume if the frame is boxed then the added rigidity would elimiante the flex exibited by standing on the running boards...

 

It would help, yes. You still have to mount the transmission though, so some sort of crossmember should be there.

And to the OP, the AOD is a long transmission, so a crossmember further back will be needed for the AOD anyway. With an IFS and IRS you plan on having, I'd consider boxing the entire frame. Where that original crossmember is, I don't know how you could retain it, but maybe two "ears" and a smaller tube or plate connects the two underneath? I'm thinking like what's used on my Fairlane for the engine mounts here. Also, I'm not familiar with how the Y-block mounts in originally, but the flatheads mount up front of the engine, so that's a lot of weight dangling back. The 351W will mount in the middle of the engine, which will take up some of the dangling weight, but not all. Maybe some others can provide pics from their Volare installs.


And one last thought: The 70's 4x4's which I know has a bolted in crossmember in the '78/79's (riveted prior to) has it set up so that the bolts are vertical thus it's a pulling/stretching weight, not a shearing weight...the properties of the bolt work for you this way.

 

Chris,
I would remove it. I have the same set up and it has been on the road for most of twenty years with no problem. Matter of fact I live right across the border from you and if you want to take a look at mine let me know, there is currently no sheet metal around it (some snow) so looking would be easy.

 

I just installed the same setup and it has about 3/4" from the bottom of the AOD pan to the crossmember on the passenger side. I'm leaving it in.

If I have to take out the transmission at a later date, I can always cut out the rivets and rebolt the member back in.

Chris

 

Howdy all,


I believe I'll have the same dilemma,

Using the 292 bolted to the E4OD I have a LONG engine and trans combo.

The cross member is absolutely for frame stiffening in addition to being the rear engine mount.

Removing (entirely) it would reduce the frame strength............ whether or not it would make a (significant) difference is hard to say.

I'll keep mine if I can or I'll replace it with a removable cross piece that I can take off if I want to pull the engine/trans etc....


Regards,



Rick