NEED HELP pls
 

Hey y'all, i ran into a snafu and need some help.

got my cab off today and i ran into a snag. I'm using an aftermarket ECE crossmember for my LS1/T56 swap b/c the stock one won't work as well.

the bolt holes for the xmemeber line up perfectly with the stock holes EXCEPT the xmember is ½" too far forward when i use the stock holes. i need some advice. here are some pics, i will post questions after. please help if you can.

PIC #1 - stock holes in framerail:

http://satellitehead.com/uploads/framehole2.jpg

PIC #2 - the holes i need to have in framerail to use xmember:

http://satellitehead.com/uploads/framehole3.jpg

i need to know:

1) Is using two oval holes for the mount a bad idea (slippage, etc)?

2) How would I *properly* turn that round hole into a pill-shaped hole like in the second picture? A drill obviously will not work here. I need to know what tool to use and what attachment/bit/whatever and any tips on how to keep the hole straight to look like the stock one.

i'm really looking forward to advice. thanks to anyone who can chip in. if anyone is here in the GA area and has any experience with this, i'll trade what few parts i got or kick you a 12-pack or something for your help.

Re: NEED HELP pls
 

Shifty

IDon't think the two oval holes would be a big problem. Does the ECE cross member just mount to the upper rail, or the upper and lower rails?

To enlarg the hole to oval, drill another hole where you want the end to ber, then use a dremel or jig saw to connect the two holes. Wala,,,oblong hole. Smooth edges with a file.

Re: NEED HELP pls
 

it mounts to top and bottom rails (rests on the inside of the framerail like the stock AT one).

i hear what you're saying about making the holes longer, but i don't think that will work in my case because the distance i need to go us much smaller than that and i don't want to get sloppy and make it super long. i've never been comfy with cutting my frame to swiss cheese :D. i literally just need to make it the same size as the other oval stock hole.

Re: NEED HELP pls
 

Make a template transfer the with a scribe . Get a rotorary file with 1/4 inch shank put the file in a drill or dremeltool cut to the scribed mark. Then its done.

Re: NEED HELP pls
 

Use a carbide grinding burr in a die grinder. Wear eye protection.

Re: NEED HELP pls
 

oops, just linked up the pictures :) forgot that before.

i don't have that great of an air compressor - sounds like you guys are roughly suggesting the same thing. i'll hafta check that out tomorrow, doubt i'm going to get this done tonight like i want to.

Re: NEED HELP pls
 

;) Shifty.... You Can Use A Carbide Burr In An Electric Drill Also. Get One With 1/4" Shank. They Are About $7 At Any Hardware Store. With Them You Can Oblong The Hole 1/16" Or 1/4" Or Whatever. John

Re: NEED HELP pls
 

Shifty you could make that hole the way you want in about 5 minutes with a good round file if you have the clearance. It needs to be for metal not wood of course.

http://shorinternational.com/FilesTaperedWidth.htm