GT frame for 53 coupe

[pgothard]

Hey, Folks -- I've got myself a very good GT frame for my 53 coupe restoration (already off the original frame). Side-by-side the GT frame & the original are somewhat different (in the outrigger body mounts). Anybody know what (if any) mods I have to make to mount the coupe on the GT frame? Thanks!

[klifton1]

Just move the coupe mounts to the GT frame. The rails are the same.
Klif

55 Speedster

[Studeman]

All you will have to do is cut the (2) OUTER frame outriggers -located just in FRONT of the front spring-eye pockets- off. Then when the body is on, drill the (2) mounting holes just below the trunk hinges, and on the side of the wheel tub. **I can't remember if the holes are still in the GT frame or not... but I seem to remember having to drill them in 1995 when I put a '54 C on a '62 GT Frame.

All the rest of the mounts line up perfectly, and you will just need to add/delete the metal and rubber body-shims.

You will also want to delete the 2-piece driveshaft, and use the 1-piece from the 'GT. ASSUMING you have a long-tailshaft transmission...


Specializing in Studebaker Restoration

[N8N]

If this is to be a true restoration, you'll need to swap over the front spring hangers from the earlier frame as well I believe. the '58-up cars used asymmetric rear springs. They supposedly work better than the earlier ones but are not correct for the '53. also you'll obviously need the driveshaft support x-member.

nate

--
55 Commander Starlight

http://members.cox.net/njnagel

[pgothard]

Thanks for your advice, everyone!

I'm the guy whose "53 Studebaker Boiler" was recently featured in Turning Wheels. I decided to do a thorough resto, but it is not intended to maintain complete originality, so I'm going to keep the GT spring-mounts and go with GT leaf-springs, and I already purchased a one-piece drive-shaft. Thanks, again!! --pgothard