[TideFreak]

Going to look at a 65 SS convertible and would like some advice on what to look for as far as a possible rusty frame. I think this car was in Indiana at some point and want to make sure I don't buy some scrap iron. Thanks for any help.

 

[FO_FDYFO]

first check for cracks in the typical spots. on the sides of the frame just behind the front lower control arm mount. they like to crack thru where the factory put the oval tie down holes. dont be afraid to take a long time checking every inch of it. if the guy wants to sell it he will wait. flip it over. take a screw driver and hammer. tap it anywhere questionable. its the golden rule. he who has the gold makes the rules. also take a tape measure. compare measurements from any bushing mount diagonally. like front left to rear right, then the front right to rear left. make sure the frame is square with in 1/8 to 1/4 inch. if you see lots of undercoating be carefull. poke thru it and check the othe side of the steel to see if it is masking a hole. take your time and tell him you want to check it aout well first.

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www.EINSTYN.com updated 7-10-02 TC#1460, VCEA#2
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1970 Chevelle 454 Wagons

 

[TideFreak]

This info will help a lot. Didn't think about checking the frame for square like that. Thanks.

 

[stavros7a]

This is going to sound weird but stick your fingers in the holes of the frame (because conv. frames are boxed) and check for major flaking. I have found that a little is OK a lot is not good. Is the frame for a Chevelle or for an El-Camino? If it is for an E-Camino it may be a little longer than your Chevelle frame (by about 3 inches) and may need to be cut and re-welded. Post if you don't have the measurements and I'll dig up my body manual and post the Convertible and wagon/El-Camino measurements.
fo_fdyfo is right on the money when he says check for square as well.
Steve

 

[TideFreak]

I may have been a little misleading. It is a whole car(in 46000 pieces) that I'm going to look at. Already took a quick look at the car once,but didn't have much time then. The body panels that are on the car look fairly straight, so it may not have been wrecked. But I will check for squareness. I figure If I didn't check it out good and found out bad news later, a convert. frame would cost 3 arms and 5 legs if I could find one. Thanks for the help.