I'm wanting to eventualy drop a Big block chevy or a souped up 350 in my 84. I heard that being how I have T-tops that the torque from the engine will cause frame damage if I make the motor too strong. Would like to hear some input on that.

 

sub frame connectors. I would get the old style Competition Engineering ones. They are very gutsy.

 

Where would I obtain those?

 

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/ws/eB...9603&viewitem=

These are a lot like the ones Competition Engineering make but the part that mounts to the center member at the front on both of the pieces were like the one that is triangulated. They dont make the old style ones because of the clearance problems with the exhaust. Will try to find better pics.
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http://www.competitionengineering.co...?CatCode=11001


Like this.

 

To be honest, the T-top structural integrity issue is really for the most part NOT TRUE. As was the structural integrity of a convertible. Granted they do flex more than a hard top car, BUT the reasons why they did not offer T-tops and a 350 EVERY year from 1987 - 1992 had nothing to do with the strength of the car. it had to do with the weight of the car and fuel economy. Same thing with the factory and Convertibles with a 350, economy.

Although with that said, the cars integrity would be comprised with a high output motor of say 300 HP or more. Personally if your going for the GO factor, invest in the STOP factor first, get yourself some oversize brakes. Fast cars do not kill people, Fast cars that cannot stop kill people. Your 1984 was not designed with a 13 second quarter mile in mind.

Keep in mind the Turbo V6 TTA Factory stock they advertised something like 245 Hp, in reality it was closer to 300 HP, and they did not reinforce anything on them to my knowledge...

Honestly SFC's are a great idea for any 3rd gen personally. As they are a unitized car.

John

 

Well put and right on the money John. Sub frame connectors are the way to go. Even on a mildly modified motor such as my wifes 92 bird vert, I noticed a difference in body flex and rattles before I added subframe connectors. My product of choice is hotchkis. I have them on both my wifes 92 vert and my 89 formula 350 accell super-ram t-top that made 442 horse at the flywheel on the engine dyno.

Joe