Tube Frame, Crazy Idea Options

[Smitty911]

I currently have a '74 2.0 that needs some body(rust) repair and got to thinking. I may spend alot of money on this repair. Which lead to the following.

How much would it cost to build a Tube Frame with un-equal length A-arms in front, 5 point rear end, buy fiberglass Fenders, hood and deck, seats, etc. etc. etc. and have a nice Track car.

Something like the Factory Five Cobra.

Use as much of an existing car or strong aftermarket parts to simplify the build and Voila, Good Track Car and OK Street car. Or Soften things up and have a Good Street Car and Adjust it back for the Track.

I have no clue about designing a Car, but I can see we have loads of talent here and most of it has been done to one level or another.

So just and intresting potential project.

Smitty

[Smitty911]

Well now I'm really intrested.

Around SoCal they can make a Sand Rail frame and suspension for under $10,000 for a roller add VW motor and tranny do some wiring and Viola Sand Car, less body panels. I saw one that was Mild Steel, you weld it around $2,500 at a Sand and Sport Show.

Now that had Un-Equal A-Arms and VW Bug type rear.

So I'm not an ME, but if you have a frame layout, add Pickups for Front and Rear Suspension points, all adjustable heims and rods, you should have a very adjustable setup just add motor and etc. etc.

If you can get a Subi Turbo Motor for $2,000 Tranny for $1,000, rolling chassy for $10,000, shocks for $1,000, double to triple for etc. etc. etc. you should be able to have a Super Seven Type or Factory Five Type car for under $20,000.

But I don't know, that's why I'm asking, how tough it is to do a frame with where to put the suspension points. All the rest can be laid outonce you have Frame.

Smitty

[ArtechnikA]

Around SoCal they can make a Sand Rail frame and suspension for under $10,000 for a roller...

I haven't seen a sand rail since moving east. but I grew up in SoCal about a mile from Chenowth's shop. I've seen sand rails.

My impression of sand rail frames is that they are designed for bending loads but are weak(er) in twist. Such a frame will be heavier than it needs to be for a road course and won't handle well. This can all be changed, of course, but now you're not looking at an off-the-shelf product any more.