1997 GT Convertible Chassis Question

[Autumnstang97]

So I am in the process (Still) of swapping my 1997 GT over to an 03/04 Terminator Power plant.

During the process, I removed the K member and replaced it with a tubular QA1. I also had to remove the convertible brace that bolted up to the stock K member. After upgrading the k member to the Tubular one, I can't reinstall the convertible brace.

My question is, how do I reinforce the chassis? I will get full length sub-frame connectors, strut tower brace, and reinforce the torque boxes, but for the front end, anything else I can do?

Also will an 03/04 Cobra strut tower brace bolt up to the existing strut tower holes on the 97 GT?

 

[Ferocious]

Maximum motorsports makes a brace for their K-member. http://www.maximummotorsports.com/s...=product_info&cPath=514_2_76&products_id=1401
I would call them and ask if it fits on the QA1 K-member.

That with subframes and a strut tower will make the front end plenty stiff.

How stiff do you want it? Maybe doing all this to a convertible wasn't the best idea because of their structural integrity compared to a coupe.

 

[96blak54]

I would think subframe connectors and a strut tower brace is plenty good, but I have no experience with convertibles.

 

[Autumnstang97]

I just want it stiff enough to handle weekend driving with the terminator motor. my 97 GT was my first car so I cant let it go. So a coupe wasn't an option. I will try full length sub frames and a strut tower bar.

 

[MustangChris]

I'd suggest making a custom brace to cross over from SFC to SFC. do you have access to a welder?

I'd also suggest leaving the 10 lb. weight in the front of the car until you get a little more lateral stiffening (or until you relocate the battery to the trunk).

The strut tower from the cobra should fit, you may need minor modification on the pinch welds -- not sure what the mounting on the 03/04 STBs look like.

Options available to you for "over the counter" parts are:
a sub frame connector kit (weld in, full length only.)
strut tower brace (preferably a 3-point unit.)
rear k-member brace (OEM unit is fine, if it works on your tubular unit.)
styling bar (not a significant source of rigidity, but better than nothing.)

Note: the strut tower brace probably wont clear your 94-98 GT hood.

 

[DropTopPony]

Chris what 10lb weight?


In addition to the subframe connectors you can add a matrix brace and jacking rail. Kenny brown was first I know of for our cars but I believe stiffler and maybe Team Z make them also.

http://store.kennybrown.com/category/catalog/94-04-mustang-live-axle/chassis-support

 

[5litrarag]

That brace didnt do much anyway... I tossed mine years ago along with that extra weight behind the pass. side fog lamp and havent had a problem. You wont miss either.

 

[MustangChris]

Chris what 10lb weight?


In addition to the subframe connectors you can add a matrix brace and jacking rail. Kenny brown was first I know of for our cars but I believe stiffler and maybe Team Z make them also.

http://store.kennybrown.com/category/catalog/94-04-mustang-live-axle/chassis-support

the big weight behind the bumper used to counter-balance the battery. "helps" prevents our awesomely engineered flex-i-flyers from flexing under load.

obviously once the battery is relocated to the trunk (or stiffening efforts are made) that weight is no longer "counter balancing" anything and can be removed.

 

[DropTopPony]

the big weight behind the bumper used to counter-balance the battery. "helps" prevents our awesomely engineered flex-i-flyers from flexing under load.

obviously once the battery is relocated to the trunk (or stiffening efforts are made) that weight is no longer "counter balancing" anything and can be removed.

Those were only on the 94-95's. I thought maybe you knew of another chunk of weight to get rid of.

 

[5-oh-MUSTANG]

Im Considering ditching the vert' brace and going full subframe? How would that work out?

 

[Ferocious]

Im Considering ditching the vert' brace and going full subframe? How would that work out?

It'll work just fine but watch that oil pan.

 

[MustangChris]

Those were only on the 94-95's. I thought maybe you knew of another chunk of weight to get rid of.

oh. i had no idea. i thought they went through to 98.... learn something new erry day.

 

[5litrarag]

Im Considering ditching the vert' brace and going full subframe? How would that work out?

You'll be fine... My oil pan has no marks on it after 12 yrs of being lowered.

 

[rz5.0]

Look at opal thread. You will find all the stiffening you will need. .