How-to: Remove Lower Frame Rail

[MGW1]

I unfortunately have to remove the lower frame rail on my '68 . I'm talking about the lower one that is roughly 2x3, and sandwhiches around the main rail that extends up and forward to the radiator support. I think it may be spot welded, and I'm going to check that. Has anyone removed these in the past and have any tips????

 

[PickupMan]

Depending on how bad it is you might not have to remove it. I just welded plates on mine. It's a hell of alot stonger and I didn't have to remove the rails. Post a pick and we'll see how bad it is.

 

[MGW1]

Uploaded them but cant attach them. Either way, there is a significant amount of rust and rot on the drivers side, and on the pass. side the last owner tried to replace the old one, but ended up ruining the main frame rail, not welding the lower rail to the main, and leaving a gap between floor/rail/torque box. Its not good and this car is being built to drag, so I'm going to replace it.

 

[PickupMan]

If they are that bad and your going to drag the car then I would replace them. I would do one side at a time. Measure, Measure and remeasure. You want to make sure that the frame is straight. That piece is spot welded in so make sure you drill the spot welds so it's easire to remove and you don't mess the floors up. If the floors are bad as well then I would cut the floor away from around the rail and go from there. If I'm not mistaken the piece that you want to replace goes is attached to a piece that goes up the tunnel and to the other frame rail. I'll have to look at mine and to see for sure. How bad are the frame rails near the rad support? If everything is rotted maybe you can go a little crazy and make a front clip from box tubing and install a mustang II front suspension and have plenty of room for a big block!! Let me know what you decide to do.

 

[rmrfstar]

Here is a drastic idea for you: Some of my friends who own a race shop are working on building a full frame for 62ish falcon to make it support very high HP. The front frame rails were reinforced during a mustang II suspension install. Box tubing welded inside the front frame rails, runs back to the rearend where they built new rear frame rails. I think the rails will be visible from inside when the car is finished. As I recall, the frame will be the lowest part on the car; the exhaust and driveshaft will run nearly parallel to it.

They didn't replace the front because it was not necessary, but I am sure that it could have been done. If you want I can get pictures...