Using C-channel for the back half?

[abadsvt]

I have decided to not build a complete frame from scratch and just modify the stock frame. I am going to rebuild the back half similiar to the pic i borrowed from FNLOW69. Hope he doesn't mind. I was wanting to build it out of 2x4 C-channel. The reason i want to use C-channel instead of tube steel is because i am going to be puting the gas tank behind the rear axel and would like to have all the fuel lines and brake lines protected inside the channel. They have 3/16 and 1/4" C-channel. I was thinking about using the 3/16 and then puting a large piece of 3/16 steel on the inside and outside for extra stength (gussets). What do you all think about this? The factory frame is made out o 1/8 C-channel so i don't see how this will be weak or bad. Please give me your opinion. Thanks

Here is a pic on how i am going to do the rear end.

[Shane]

use tubing and Kugel Klamps for your lines ... much stronger and looks much more gooder.

[70rs/ss]

It never ceases to amaze me how many ways to build/engineer these trucks! That is peel the reflectors of the road low, wow!!

[cdowns]

[QUOTE=Shane;1813635]use tubing and Kugel Klamps for your lines ... much stronger and looks much more gooder. [/QUOTE

tubing is by far the better choice// you can also cut access holes and run the tubing inside the tube for an almost completely hidden effect// but you could always use the c-channel and if it fails then you can use tubing the second time around if you survive

[abadsvt]

What about when people Z the frame they cut the stock C-channel and weld it back together and people think that is okay but when it comes to the rear it has to be done in tube steel? I think if it is done right you will be plenty strong enough. The reason i am so for the C-channel is because i don't like the way the frame looks when you go from C-channel to tube steel. I know that tube steel is stronger but is it overkill? Thanks for thoughing out your comments. Josh

[67chevy2wd]

How do you get the box to fit when the frame is modified like that?

[Shane]

Originally Posted by 67chevy2wd

How do you get the box to fit when the frame is modified like that?

[Shane]

Originally Posted by abadsvt

What about when people Z the frame they cut the stock C-channel and weld it back together and people think that is okay but when it comes to the rear it has to be done in tube steel? I think if it is done right you will be plenty strong enough. The reason i am so for the C-channel is because i don't like the way the frame looks when you go from C-channel to tube steel. I know that tube steel is stronger but is it overkill? Thanks for thoughing out your comments. Josh

People also "box" the frame when they build a notch, which in essence is making a square/retangle tube out of the "c" channel.

Do whatever ya want, but there is a reason why you can't purchase a back-half made from "c" channel from any chassis company.

Tubing is better, stronger, and the smartest way to mod a frame.

[highboy_04]

i dont know about you but i dont like to build things "strong enough" i like it to be fail proof. i'd go with the 2x4 rectangle tubing.

[N2TRUX]

Originally Posted by abadsvt;

.... The factory frame is made out o 1/8 C-channel so i don't see how this will be weak or bad. Please give me your opinion. ...

The factory frame is stamped to shape and has very few angles. What you are proposing is entirely different.

Yes you can use C-channel but it will look bulky and weigh much more than rectangular tubing. As Shane mentioned take a look at any "professional" built chassis and you will see rectangular or round tubing. They do this for a reason.

Originally Posted by abadsvt;

.... The reason i am so for the C-channel is because i don't like the way the frame looks when you go from C-channel to tube steel. I know that tube steel is stronger but is it overkill? Thanks for throwing out your comments. Josh...

No, it's not overkill. It's lighter and stronger than C-channel which makes it a logical choice. If you don't like the looks of rectangular tubing merging with the stock frame, then box the front of the frame...

[abadsvt]

Well you guys talked me out of it. I will use tube steel. Thanks for the comments. I really appreciate it!!!!!!!

[jimmydean]

If I had the room and the tools (as I hope to some day) I would love to build a complete custom frame from 4130 round tubing. Light, strong, and sweet!