WW,
The roll bar was electropolished.
The frame was "elbow-greased" with Mother's.
SFCJ,
This option is now available. We have stainless steel frames in stock. Build time is about 4-6 weeks right now.
AA,
Overkill...
Seriously, I have taken a screwdriver and pushed it through the frame rails of original cars. Rust was a problem. I have been thinking of this for a long time. Inch size tubing in Europe is difficult to find--but we finally did. Although I don't think rust will be very much of a problem with our cars, (the frames are much thicker than the original), I still didn't like the rust trails that always show up. Also, cars today are much less likely to be driven in the salt and the rain.
Tim,
The alloy stainless we use for the frames does indeed have less yield strength than mild steel, but tensile strengths are much higher, (approximately 25-30% higher than mild steel). We have compensated for the lower yield by using slightly thicker brackets and tubes where needed. Elongation is much higher than most mild steels, (just look at a stainless steel bowl in your kitchen). As you are aware, yield strengths is highly dependent on geometry--(or thickness).
The main frame tubes are 0.120" wall tubing and the originals were 0.090".
Roll bar.
Now, of course, didn't want to sacrifice strength on the roll bar...so we used SEAMLESS 321 stainless. 321 has been alloyed with titanium and it work hardens like a fiend. (Roll bar is work hardened when the hoop is bent.)
I will post more pics of our latest parts in a little bit.
Hersh,
Give me a ring...let's make a deal.
Lew, TC, Brent,
Give me a ring...let's make a deal.
Thanks for all the kind words,
David
