Check Out That Chassis
By Scott Weney of S&W Racecars
3/8/06
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I have a 71
Chevelle that currently runs 7.80’s and
would like to run it to the 7.50 level and be
legal in both NHRA and IHRA. The car is currently
certified for 7.50 NHRA and 8.50 IHRA. I have
the SFI 25.5 publication and from what I have
read, I’m not sure if I can meet the spec
and still get a set of headers in the car. It
is a blown alcohol big block with a Turbo 400,
stock frame rails from the front to the rear just
behind the driver’s seat. The engine is
in the stock location. Right now I have 2 1/8”
headers that won’t fit with my new mid-plate
so I ordered a new set of Lemon Headers with 2
½” tubes, two that go over the frame
rails on each side.
Specifically, the area of most concern is the
addition of the foot bars in the front. In the
spec, they are listed as 6A, 6B and 6C. I can’t
see how I can get the bars in with the mid-plate,
stock floor, frame and headers. Any suggestions
on getting these installed besides sliding a new
chassis in the car? Thanks.
Tom Dwyer
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Tom,
This is a big problem for a lot of people now that more cars
have to meet this spec. The easiest way we have done this
type of job is to take the stock rail out of the middle section
of the chassis and tie your rear section to the front frame
rails with the rails that are in the spec. This will also
give you more room to run bigger tube headers under the car.
Please call me if the have any questions on how to do this.
Scott Weney
President, S & W Race Cars