New to forum. Searched archives but did not find my main question/answers. Are all of the first gen subframes the same strength? Does anyone know how to strengther the cross-member between the a-arms so that it will maintain suspension setting when using BB engines. Every old frame that I have seen that has some miles on them is bent to some degree. Any help/suggestions. Just started rebuilding a '69 and will be installing a 435hp factory 427 out of a Vette.

Welcome M77. As far as I know, all subframes are the same. I am not aware of any "bending" problems with a BB. The engine cradle and front crossmenber are pretty stout and have held up on old super stock cars with lots of wheels up time on them. Keep an eye on your post as others may have better info.

Yea I have heard of it, but it really isnt a factor unless you are going to race this chassis and race it hard.

In the past I have used a device very similar to what was done on the early road race Corvettes. It has been known as a "spreader bar". What it basically is constructed of, is two frame mounts forward of the engine and a heim-jointed bar that can be 'spread' apart to preload the frame. This also helps to eliminate unwanted camber changes from frame flex.

Might just a viable addition, but space consideration is going to be the real question here. You will most likely have to cut the fan shroud to fit this device in there with a big block. I know I had to do this on the first Gen's I stuffed spreader bars into that were running a big block. It will all fit, but it will be tight to the front of the pulley's and the fan iteslf.

Welcome to the site, didnt want to forget that !!

Tom,
There a couple companies selling spreader bars for SB Vettes, but I haven't seen anything for the Camaros. Did you build your own? When you install these, how do you know when you've applied enough pre-load? Do you measure the frame, or just wrench on the bar until it won't go anymore?

Ken

Thanks everyone.