Update 12/20/09: Crossmember 2.0. Made a call to Kert at DIY4x to fab up some parts to get make some more room on the engine crossmember for the headers. All of the measurements came out right and we are spot on to where I thought it would end up. You da man Kert! Still have a few things to do to the crossmember before I consider it complete:
1. Weld the spacer plate to the existing crossmember flange
2. Drill the new upper holes for the flange, spacer, and frame boxes
3. Spray some paint on it.
I started with some new motor mount brackets. They raise the engine up 9/16". To level set, here's the pan clearance using the original motor mounts.
Here's how it sits with the new mounts. Probably enough clearance for a deep sump pan later.
Here's the money shot. Spacer is cut to size here. Test fit with the headers and the crossmember fully bolted up to the motor mounts
Shot of the original frame box. Sticks out from the frame about 1/4"
Shot of the new frame box. It sits flush with the frame.
Everything bolted up in the frame. Yup, still fits.
If all goes as planned over the next couple of weeks, the engine may be in the truck by New Year.
