Frame swap Pontiac to Olds

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Old Jan 11, 2011 | 10:22 AM
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Dagwood(tsrw)'s Avatar
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Frame swap Pontiac to Olds

Can anybody tell me if the frame from a 1967 Pontiac LeMans Coupe will fit a 1967 Cutlass convertible? They appear to be similar but I don't know if there are specific differences for each car body style...
Old Jan 11, 2011 | 10:44 AM
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Yes, The major differences in A body frames are the reinforcement of the convertible frames.
Old Jan 11, 2011 | 02:05 PM
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Originally Posted by Dagwood(tsrw)
Can anybody tell me if the frame from a 1967 Pontiac LeMans Coupe will fit a 1967 Cutlass convertible? They appear to be similar but I don't know if there are specific differences for each car body style...
Originally Posted by Jamesbo
Yes, The major differences in A body frames are the reinforcement of the convertible frames.
So the real answer, then, is no, since a LeMans COUPE frame won't have the reinforcement needed for a Cutlass CONVERTIBLE.
Old Jan 11, 2011 | 02:46 PM
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you can have a shop reinforce it for you find a hydraulic shop that specializes in lowriders they do frame reinforcments all day
Old Jan 11, 2011 | 02:54 PM
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Originally Posted by fly1
you can have a shop reinforce it for you find a hydraulic shop that specializes in lowriders they do frame reinforcments all day
Sorry, that wouldn't be my first choice.

The factory reinforcements that turn a hardtop frame into a convertible frame are not simple flat plates. These are complex formed channels that fit inside the outer frame rails and turn them into boxes. These channels are contoured to clear the footwells in the floorpan while still providing the necessary bending and torsional stiffness. Do it right, get a good convertible frame.
Old Jan 11, 2011 | 05:00 PM
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Also check the frame horns, as they may not work with Olds bumper brackets.
Old Jan 11, 2011 | 05:59 PM
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Run to Rund Also check the frame horns, as they may not work with Olds bumper brackets.
I can tell you from experience, the frame horns are different width and the radiator core support will not bolt up. We tried to swap a frame from '67 Cutlass hardtop to a '67 Tempest. Anything can be made to work depending on how much time or money you want to invest. Seeing the two frames side by side, I would not be afraid to box the frame rails myself. They are more triangle shaped than square boxed. Any good fabricator with good welding skills should be able to handle that for you. You will need to use the old rotted one for patterns. I still have an extra good frame from my '67 hardtop with a twelve bolt rear end. Let me know if you need it.

Last edited by 67 Cutlass Freak; Jan 11, 2011 at 07:12 PM.
Old Jan 11, 2011 | 07:09 PM
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Hollander interchange book shows that the only match is 67 cutlass. none of the other GM A bodies swap.
Old Jan 12, 2011 | 05:55 AM
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Originally Posted by compedgemarine
Hollander interchange book shows that the only match is 67 cutlass. none of the other GM A bodies swap.
Yeah, but Hollanders also says that only Cutlass disc brake spindles fit a Cutlass, and I know from personal experience that any A-body spindle will fit.
Old Jan 13, 2011 | 12:42 PM
  #10  
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Oh well...

I will attempt to repair the existing frame but I fear it is too far gone. It seems the frame and body on the 1967 LeMans as they are nearly rust free would be a better choice to restore and I will be forced to part out the 67 Cutlass. The body panels and running gear is near perfect on the Cutlass but the frame is suffering serious rot.
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