Where to weld back frame brace

[ssn696]

The simplest upgrade is to triangulate the upper and lower rear control arm bolts - Hotchkis and others make connecting bars and longer bolt kits. I've seen Forum members reinforce the frames out back with other stiffener kits. Check out UMI. I have the Hotchkis kit from about 20 years ago.

 

[-83MONTESS-]

I went a different route and used a piece of an old Jeep roll cage I had laying around. Just basic carbon steel. I welded it from directly behind the shock mount crossmember across straight. I had to replace the driver's side rear frame rail so this brace ended up right on the weld line for the new frame rail. Fits perfect but I don't have a factory fuel tank so I couldn't tell you how it would fit. I also welded in lower control arm support brackets from JT Racecraft and I have the bolt in adjustable lower+upper control arm braces from UMI. All that plus tubular control arms, thick F body rear sway bar, and solid body mounts the car feels very tight. You can kind of see the brace in this pic....

 

[GuysMonteSS]

I took a simple approach and used an old bed frame and bolted it on;


I also have a Hotchkis rear control arm brace which I feel is a necessary addition for a high HP G Body.
The crossmember above the rearend developed a crack in it after years of abuse so my buddy & I drilled a small hole at each end of the crack and welded it up then installed the new brace and its been good ever since.
Guy

 

[Geo's66]

Thanks for that pic, Guy. That's what I was hoping to see. So with the frame rail, you used one of the bolt holes for the rear bumper, I think? Great info fellas, exactly what I'll do. Jt race craft brace, hotchkis as well. I have hotchkis on my chevelle, works fine..

 

[GuysMonteSS]

That is correct I did use the bolt holes for the bumper.
I didn't see the need for a real heavy piece of metal as all you are doing is tying the frame ends together.
Guy

 

[Waaaypastredline]

I was thinking about doing some type of brace for my Malibu this winter when I redo the rear bumper brackets. I was going to take a wide piece of steel,(or angle iron) and run it to either side of the frame, much like Guys, but wider, so I can get a couple more bolts through it.