Frame Modifications

Assuming that we have decided to remove the body from the frame, we can start doing the modifications to the frame to fit the SR into the engine compartment.

Frame Setup: Mount the stripped and cleaned frame on a set of heavy duty jack stands. I like to work with the frame about 24″ off of the ground, but find a suitable working height that feels comfortable to you.

After the frame is sitting on the jack stands, shim it as necessary to get it as level and square as possible. Use your magnetized level to check that the frame is level in more than one place. Give the frame a wiggle test to make sure that it is stable, and will not fall if something was bumped into it. You will be working at some unusual angles when doing the frame modifications, and it is very important that the frame is sitting solidly on the jack stands!

Once the frame is setup, scribe the center line on the front cross member and the X-member. This line will be very important, so be sure to use a good scribe and mark the frame carefully as we will reference this line many times during the conversion.

The front cross member can be difficult to mark, but I find that it is easiest to measure between the rectangular mounts (see photo) and to scribe a center line. The approximate dimension from side to side is (6-1/4″).

Once the engine and transmission are out of the car, and the entire frame has been degreased and cleaned, it is time to start removing the stock roadster brackets.

Engine Mounts: Remove both stock motor mounts and grind flush. (This motor mount has been cut with the plasma cutter and is going to be broken off the frame with a hammer)

Next: Front Crossmember Notch