55.2-59 1957 Bellhousing crossmember

[qbeanie]

A recent post stated that the bellhousing crossmember is required to maintain the rear cab mount integrity. It was also mentioned the front spring mount is attached to this member. I was going to remove this crossmember to allow more clearance for my 700r transmission but i am rethinking that. Can this crossmember be removed by cuttng the rivits and installing bolts? Can this member be trimmed and then boxed? Please share your experiences. Thanks.

[mikebte]

Originally Posted by qbeanie

A recent post stated that the bellhousing crossmember is required to maintain the rear cab mount integrity. It was also mentioned the front spring mount is attached to this member. I was going to remove this crossmember to allow more clearance for my 700r transmission but i am rethinking that. Can this crossmember be removed by cuttng the rivits and installing bolts? Can this member be trimmed and then boxed? Please share your experiences. Thanks.

I removed mine on my 59, installed bolts and have been fine. 0 issues, but I added a crossmember on the rear of my transmission and one for my engine mounts. Just my experience.

[dsraven]

when I removed mine for a frame boxing exercise I had to cut it to get it out. removing the rivets wasn't enough. not enough room to get it outta there. 57 gmc.

[mikebte]

Originally Posted by dsraven

when I removed mine for a frame boxing exercise I had to cut it to get it out. removing the rivets wasn't enough. not enough room to get it outta there. 57 gmc.

Agreed, I split the member down the center followed by grinding off the rivets and punching them out with a hammer. No easy foot to remove, but it can be done.

[capnduane]

On my 55 2nd V8 I cut the crossmember about 6in on each side, from the frame, and removed it. I have a full circle aluminum bellhousing and could not access the clutch with the crossmember in there. Like Mike, I have a crossmember at the rear of the trans and under the mid of the engine as well. Been a couple of years, and no problems yet....