I did a search on convertible frames. I learned that they are a little more stout and they also have more frame mounts. So, can a hardtop body be easily mounted to a convertible frame? Will the body mounts line up with the mounts on the frame? Where are the extra frame mounts?

Has anyone done this swap, and if so, was there anything special one should know?

I have never done this swap, but while looking for a frame for my hardtop, I found out a few things.

1)Convert frames are boxed the entire length. Hardtop/ sedan frame are only boxed around the suspension. The long lenghts under the doors are only channel on them. (at least 64-67, not sure on the 68-72)

2)Extra mouts are in the middle of the frame, around the doors.

3)convert frames use a different tranny crossmember

4)The four door sedan/hardtop and 2 dr hardtop use the same frame on (64-66). Elky and wagon use same frame. Covert is boxed like elky but should measure like a hartop.

5)convert frames are a litlle hard to come by, as there were fewer of them. Hence, EXPENSIVE.

Now these are my experiences on the 64-67 model years, if you have the latter, it may be different. I can scan you a pic with the measurements of both laid out for a 66, just let me know.
Hope this helps. graemlins/thumbsup.gif

Actually, the extra mounts are at the front under the firewall.

first, what year are you refering to? lets just talk about 70 (same as 68-72) you can put a convertible frame under a coupe. the fuel lines, brake lines and crossmember is the only different parts. as far as the mounts go, convertibles use 2 mounts under the firewall. all frames already have the mount holes for both. you just would not use it on your coupe. the only other difference in mounts is that the middle mount on a convertable bolts to the body floor where as on a coupe there is just a rubber bumper biscuit. you would just use the biscuit because your floor will not have the built in nut. i am currently putting an elky frame under a 70 wagon. it is the identical thing you are talking about ony with the longer wheelbase frame. p.s. you may use either an elcamino or convertible crossmember. they are the same and shorter then coupes and wagons and 4 doors. graemlins/beers.gif