Original Style Frame W/Fiberglass Body?

[LMH]

Hey all
For those of you who are building an original style frame and using a glass body, what do you do about the cockpit edge tubing?
The body isn't going to be able to "bend" around the tube frame unless that tube is cast into the body, right? Then weld the frame together once the body's mounted? How do you deal with that?
Larry

[Three Peaks]

Larry,
The frame, or birdcage, is shaped to fit under and support the body and welded in place, unlike the aluminum body frame which is attached to the body when you receive it. Then, the fiberglass body simply sets on top of the birdcage and is bolted to the chassis outrigger tubes at the bottom on each side and in the front below the oil cooler.

If you can't find pics of an original style chassis for fiberglass body, check out the Factory Five chassis. Pretty much the same bird cage support system.

Bob

[mickmate]

Hey Larry you're thinking about it too much ha ha. You're right though between the curve of the sides and the birdcage tubing around the cockpit you have to make the birdcage a little loose to get it down over there. The front and rear will flex over the rocker panel area to let the front and rear tubing fit in and then drop down. You see why they did 4000 etc cars like they did. Some of the cowl tubes like under dash can be added afterwards also. There's a few other tricks, let me know when you've thought of some more.

[LMH]

Thanks guys!
Yeah, this is what I think about when I wake up in the middle of the night! Have I lost it or what!
Larry