1989GTATransAm

iTrader: (3)

I have shown some pictures of my transmission cross member in another thread on exhaust termination boxes. These are progress pictures as the cross member is nearing completion. So I thought I would start a separate thread instead of adding to the other one.

I built this for 3 reasons. One is to be able to run one exhaust pipe along side of the passenger side of my new 4L60E transmission. With the factory crossmember in place the pipe would have to dip very low and there would not be much ground clearance. My cross member will allow the pipe to run much higher with pretty much the same ground clearance I now have.

The 2nd reason was to remove the factory torque arm off of the transmission tail housing to the cross member. The 3rd reason was to build in a drive shaft loop. All three aims have be accomplished. The final weld will be the drive shaft loop. I have left it off for the time being as I don't want to remove the drive shaft every time I check things out. Here are some pictures.

The center picture would be if you were looking forward from the rear end. The high mount on the right is for the exhaust pipe clearance. The picture on the right is if you were looking to the rear from the engine. The front hole is where the transmission mount goes. The picture on the left would be looking at it from the drivers side.

1989GTATransAm

iTrader: (3)

Here are three more pictures with one showing the torque arm mount in place. The first two pictures show the underside as you would see from the bottom of the car.

AlkyIROC

Looks good but I don't think your driveshaft loop is legal.

Driveshafts must have a retaining loop 1/4" minimum thickness and 2" wide steel or 7/8" x .065" wall welded steel tubing.

Aluminum driveshaft loops won't pass a tech inspection.

1989GTATransAm

iTrader: (3)

I have already twisted and broken the stock aluminum drive shaft on the chasis dyno. The driveshaft loop is more for my protection. I have never been called for a driveshaft loop at the track. If asked I can say I have one. It is 1/2 inch thick by 1 inch long but made of aluminum tubing as you stated.

91_Formula

iTrader: (1)

Damn nice welding , can you post photos once it is installed? The piece looks great, I am curious to see how your design fits in the car.

PROSTOCK5031

iTrader: (1)

I do not think that is strong enuff, and "loop" is too small.(my Alu shaft is much larger than stock, may help you as well) I got my set up from ED QUAY...its all chrome molly light but much stronger 9and did away with the weak stock rubber mount) You did nice looking work... but maybe you should have looked around at what others were using/selling frist. Good luck with your project!

1989GTATransAm

iTrader: (3)

I will continue on the mount in February. I have to mount it in the car one more time. One more gusset needs to be installed. Just need the final dimension. Also will weld the loop in place. Then on to the paint shop. We shall see on the strength.

The loop barely clears the tunnel now.