[DeTomaso] engine bay lower X-member

[Dave Londry]

Thanks Boys, that should do it.
dave
=================================================
In a message dated 3/20/11 22 47 56, davel at emspace.com writes:
> I have the 351C out and one if the Ipsco removable X-member replacements
> sitting ready to go.
> But just before I rip out the original, I'd like to read one or two of
> the write-ups of those who already did it.
> You know, in case there's a "whatever you do - don't xyz$"
==================================================
On 3/20/2011 11:08 PM, MikeLDrew at aol.com wrote:
It's pretty straightforward.  The crossmember folds out and on each end, 
has two flat surfaces spot-welded to the sides of the chassis rail, and 
one on the top.  I used a Sawzall to cut the crossmember out, leaving 
the flat surfaces still attached to the chassis.  Then I used an air 
chisel, prybars, hammers, and profanity to remove the remaining pieces, 
then an angle grinder to grind things smooth, then undercoating paint to 
hide any trace of it ever having been there.

Mike
==================================================================
On 3/21/2011 10:52 AM, JDeRyke at aol.com wrote:
Chopping the oem crossmember out with the engine in place is a dirty, 
miserable and difficult job, as the pan is only an inch or so away. Wear 
old clothes and send the kids out of earshot of curses. With the engine 
out, its much simpler. Two things: do NOT cut into the frame rails in 
your efforts to get the old unit out and the rails clean of fragments. 
And after its out, each car will be slightly different in the dimensions 
between the rails. So don't expect a pre-fabricated assembly to slip up 
in place without either shims or some jacking. Also, the removeable ones 
are held in place by the lower front a-arm clevise nuts, so those will 
need to be unfastened on each side, too.

Once its out, much the same needs to be done with the e-brake bellcrank 
bracket just in front of the pan. The pan drops down, then moves forawrd 
about 6" to clear the oil pump pickup inside. Once the bracket is cut 
out, a short piece of angle-iron can be welded or bolted to the oem 
piece, and holes drilled to screw it to the frame rail where it was 
originally welded.  Good luck- J DeRyke