Suspension and Chassis Questions about your suspension? Need chassis advice?

Thoughts on Seam Welding?

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Old 10-20-2020, 12:20 PM
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Car: 1985 Trans Am
Engine: 350
Transmission: T5
Thoughts on Seam Welding?

From what I could find, it's been a long time since there's been any discussion on seam welding a 3rd gen chassis. I think we can all agree that the structural rigidity of these cars is one of their strong points. SFC's and wonder bars help considerably, but I think there is still a lot that could be gained from seam welding key areas around the K-member and rear subframes. Modern tires put so much more stress on our cars - especially with many people running 275 or wider on all 4 corners. A lot of people on here are also aiming for power numbers that are double or triple than what they came with from the factory.

Any members here go through the trouble of seam welding their chassis?
Old 10-20-2020, 12:44 PM
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Car: 84 Z28, 92 C4 suspension F&R, ABS
Engine: 408 LS2, CNC LS3 heads, Comp Cam
Transmission: Magnum F, RTX clutch, Tick shifter
Axle/Gears: DANA 44, Tru Trac, 3:73 gears
Re: Thoughts on Seam Welding?

I believe that in key areas it can be beneficial, although I have seen some take it to extremes. I did the rear seat bulkhead when I tubbed the rear wheel wells because my new suspension pick up points are tied into the bulkhead. I also reinforced the frame rails in the rear and the frame connectors attach at the forward control arm mount. As far as the strut towers, I did not seam weld them because the new frame rails in the front carry all of the suspension loads with the K-member and the frame connectors tie the frame rails and the firewall together. I know that my suspension is unique, so it my be advantageous to seam weld the front strut towers and firewall on other cars. With that being said, nothing beats a sound cage.
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