l-body welds to strengthen chassis

[wallace]

What areas should be welded up to help prevent the separation of the spot welded panels? I read in a couple of threads there were some places that should be done to keep the panels from separating I think one of the areas is the strut tower panels? Almost ready to remove the engine for final assembly and I'd like to get the welding done while the drivetrain is out of the car. Any info appreciated. Thanks.

[GLHNSLHT2]

stitch weld everything you can. Mostly between the inner fenders and the outside of the frame rail. Around the strut towers would also be good. A strut tower bar and then a lower tie bar would also be a good idea to have.

[fishcleaner]

I did this with 1-1/4 tubing, 1" would be fine. My trans mount was broke off so I used 1/8" plate to re-inforce it. The bracing was immediatly noticable just backing out the driveway.

[Johnny]

Nice! That should make it strong.

[RoadWarrior222]

There's supposed to be some foam filling you can do in hollow sections to stiffen things, then if you look in cindy's "cage in an omni" thread there's some info about extra roof stiffening.

Personally, I'd try and simplify that example pictured, like try and go diagonal with a single piece across the strut towers, and maybe substitute the front diagonal, for a piece that kinda goes double diagonal (i.e. down as well as across) to the front crossmember which would be reinforced. Just a thought on the "less pieces the better" principle.

If you're thinking anywhere would like a "little" reinforcement, but the angle iron you can get seems too hefty, could try picking some bedrails/frames up off the curb or at yard sales. Like you could probably go down the back of the drip-rails with some pieces of that... but dunno if you're looking for rally strength or what.