Hi all, I have the Hellwig Gbody Frame FX kit and am getting ready to install it on my 1986 El Camino. Now I know it is only for the Monte and the other 2 doors because the El Camino frame is about 9 inches longer. My intention is to extend the pieces by remaking the pieces longer. I have searched high and low for any video or article of anyone installing this kit on a Gbody frame. Recently, one guy, "daredevil7442," on Youtube posted an install but stated there were issues and never elaborated.
Has anyone installed this frame kit? Can you tell me about your experience of your install? The instructions state to pull the frame in the center before welding expecting the frame to bow out; however, the "daredevil7442," guy on Youtube frame did not move back stayed fixed in the pulled in position. It would seem to me that if the frame is held at the static position without adding any tension the frame would keep its shape because after all the extra metal should stiffen it up and not let it move. I would like to know what issue you ran into and how you solved the issues.
Questions:
1. Did you grind everything flush including the spacers between the long pieces that stick up?
2. Did you have to cut any holes to insert the body bushings inside the frame?
3. There are two 1 inch wide long pieces with a holes at each end where does this go on the frame?
4. Any issues with transmission cross member?
5. Any other frame stiffening need to happen as in the rear frame rails behind the axle as mine are open on the inside for the El Camino, and there is no connecting brace between left and right frame rails?
I have already installed an LS1 with a 4l60e transmission back in 2005. My rear brake line rusted out so its time for a frame off restoration.
Thank you for any advice and information.
Has anyone installed this frame kit? Can you tell me about your experience of your install? The instructions state to pull the frame in the center before welding expecting the frame to bow out; however, the "daredevil7442," guy on Youtube frame did not move back stayed fixed in the pulled in position. It would seem to me that if the frame is held at the static position without adding any tension the frame would keep its shape because after all the extra metal should stiffen it up and not let it move. I would like to know what issue you ran into and how you solved the issues.
Questions:
1. Did you grind everything flush including the spacers between the long pieces that stick up?
2. Did you have to cut any holes to insert the body bushings inside the frame?
3. There are two 1 inch wide long pieces with a holes at each end where does this go on the frame?
4. Any issues with transmission cross member?
5. Any other frame stiffening need to happen as in the rear frame rails behind the axle as mine are open on the inside for the El Camino, and there is no connecting brace between left and right frame rails?
I have already installed an LS1 with a 4l60e transmission back in 2005. My rear brake line rusted out so its time for a frame off restoration.
Thank you for any advice and information.
