Topic: 1978 frame is rotted what years fit.
in Forum: C3 Body
Already a Member?
Click Here to Login
Not yet a Member?
Click Here to Register for Free!
SPONSOR AD:: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)
I think it is 78-79 only as a direct interchange. If memory serves, the 80-81 (and 82) have a different clutch linkage attachment and more importantly a different rear suspension/mounting. 68-72 have very different bumper mounting, 73-77 have somewhat different bumper mounting. Hope someone else can verify this.
When researching this topic earlier this year, I was told that the 75-79 frames are the same. I am having a new frame built to accept my C4 suspension, so I may have a '78 frame you are looking for.
Bryan Corbitt
1978 LT1 SA
Last Ride
|IMG|http://www.geocities.com/silvershark.geo/VetteSale7.jpg|/IMG|
Hey, my 78 frame is rotted badly as well. In researching the local vette shops they told me 78 and 79 are the direct interchange, I'm assuming others would fit with mods but that seems a bit too much hassle. I'm just gonna go for the correct frame.
I did hear a rumour about 78 frames being significantly lighter guage than previous or following years and would like ot know if anyone can substantiate this, what I heard was that Chevy lightened the steel in order to reduce weight, can anyone verify this?
I did hear a rumour about 78 frames being significantly lighter guage than previous or following years and would like ot know if anyone can substantiate this, what I heard was that Chevy lightened the steel in order to reduce weight, can anyone verify this?
Former Member
Send PM
MYRTLE BEACH, SC - USA
Joined: 10/16/2002
Posts: 82
Vette(s): 1978 Silver Anniversary
NCRS Five-Star Bowtie
50th Corvette Anniversary Display, Nashville, TN
1978 Pace Car VIN 2324 L82/M21
1978 was the heftiest Corvette in its 50 year history...I find it hard to believe they lightened frame components. Reducing weight did not become a reality until 1980 with the introduction of rear crossmember and differential components.
Having said that...78 and 79 used the identical part number for the frame 14055041. 1980-82 used the same number 14050682 but differed from the 78-79 due to the use of the aluminum rear crossmember.
Early frames were different as 78-79 had to be modified for the redesign of the fastback window and luggage space.
Having said that...78 and 79 used the identical part number for the frame 14055041. 1980-82 used the same number 14050682 but differed from the 78-79 due to the use of the aluminum rear crossmember.
Early frames were different as 78-79 had to be modified for the redesign of the fastback window and luggage space.
Doing a scan of Ebay and saw a 79 frame for $500. Guy's Ebay name is SERIUS 1. Or go to Ebay and type in 79 Corvette wheels. The listing is for the wheels but he mentions other items in the ad. Don't know where you guys are, but this is in New Mexico. (solid rust free?)Shipping$$$??? Mike
Former Member
Send PM
Dickinson (Houston), TX - USA
Joined: 8/8/2003
Posts: 50
Vette(s): '71 vert
'78 Coupe(Modification in progress)
The 78 Vette will interchange with 1969 to 1979 frames. the only difference is between the automatic frame and manual frames.
You can use the 1980-1982 frames if you keep the rear suspension from the later vettes.
Bill
http://home.earthlink.net/~bigdogvettes/index.html
You can use the 1980-1982 frames if you keep the rear suspension from the later vettes.
Bill
http://home.earthlink.net/~bigdogvettes/index.html
in Forum: C3 Body
SPONSOR AD: (Our Sponsors help support C3VR)