We just completed puting new clip on my son's 86 Cutlass and he had a crash. Bent front passenger frame about 2 to 3 inches in towards engine. Theres no tears on frame but never having this happen before, We need to know if we should go with a shop that has a frame machine or should we just go with a new frame,will need to replace upper/lower control arms, tie rod. He hit a fire hydrant smack on the passenger front wheel. He has a parts car with a good frame. I really hate to have to do a swap, but if it's the best way to go, then I will have my work cut out for me for the next few weekends.

With a good shop, should they be able to get it lined up correctly and if they heat the frame to do so, does it do anything to the tinsel strength of the steel.

Appreciate any advise on this one.

Kevin

I personally would go with the new frame.

My wife did this a couple of years ago (dating at the time) in her 72 camaro. She fell asleep at the wheel at about 45+ MPH and hit a BIG curb and slammed it into a light pole. She caught some pretty awesome air though LOL, where she hit the pole was about 4ft off the ground. Basically she mangled the frame, shoving the right front tire underneath the passenger floorboard. She was fine other than extremely pissed that she wrecked her car.

We found a new frame and replaced it. I have never had a frame straightened but I have been told that it just never drives the same again. I personally would not have a frame pulled straight just because I am paranoid like that.

Good luck with whatever you decide.

Call around to some frame shops in your area and maybe some of the New York Team Chevelle members can recommend someone. The Camaro has a subframe on the front and would be less work that an 86 G body with a full frame. Just my opinion.