I am placing the body back on the frame and wondered how accurate I need to be. Currently, using the two holes at the front (below the cowl), the body is shifted back about 1/4" from being perfectly centered over the two holes. I can insert all the hardware to attach the frame, but was wondering is this 1/4" will be a problem when I go to install all the body panels for the front-end (fenders, hood, etc.)

Will I have a problem attaching the front end if I don't fix this offset?

Thanks.

John
69 Chevelle SS
Mississippi

John...A 1/4 in. won't matter. There is plenty of play in the rad. support to frame holes. As long as you can get all the body to frame bolts in, the location 1/4 in. either way will be OK...

Usherjm, with due respect to 71SSBB, the 1/4" MAY NOT be a major factor. But why take a chance? If you haven't bolted everything down already, it would be a very simple thing to square the body on the frame closer than the 1/4". Look at it this way...project that 1/4" variance from the cowl out to the front of the frame rails where the front bumper mounts and that 1/4" has become closer to more than a 1/2". It is much less critical if the variance is front-to-rear, but still can cause noticeable gaps.

Could you adjust the front sheet metal to "fit" with that 1/4" variance at the cowl? Probably, but you will almost definately have to make some compromises with the fit. There will be a definate difference in the gap side-to-side between the fenders and the doors. Perhaps as little as 1/16th of an inch, but still there. You may also have to compromise with the side-to-side gaps between the front bumper sides at the fenders. Again, a front-to-rear variance is less of a concern.

If at all possible, remove that 1/4" variance now. Otherwise, it can be seen in the final assembly.

The Body/Chassis Service Manual specifies up to a maximum of 3/8ths of an inch for most body gaps. Keep in mind that your current 1/4" variance projects out another 4-5 feet.

BTW, I didn't know people from Starkville were allowed to own/drive cars. graemlins/waving.gif smile.gif I'm originally from the Amory area. One of my sisters lives in Starkville.

Wait till you try and hang/center your front bumper. It's attached to the frame and if the front end of your car is off 1/2 to 3/4" your going to have trouble. Don't ask why I know this.
Roger

i would want it centered in the rear a little better so the same space is between the tire and the wheel lip.