trimming 67 front frame rails

[kevncar]

I'm trying to get a 454 in my 67 and need to clearance the frame rails for the headers. I figure, I'll start with the factory cuts that were in the original 68s and up, and hopefully, I won't have to go any further.

Does anybody have a nice clear picture of their 68 or up front frame, maybe without the motor and everything.

I'm going to draw up a sketch so hopefully a board member can easily pull some dimensions for me so I can reproduce the cuts. I'd just like to have an idea where the original cuts are at in relation to other things so the sketch isn't confusing. (or at least not any more confusing than this email is)

Thanks!!!

[kevncar]

Can anyone help me out here?

[slammed1]

Are you running a header made for a big block 67-72 truck? I had no problems with a 454 in mine with headers on a 72 frame and I wasnt aware the frames really changed much at all as far as shape.

[kevncar]

I don't think they are made specifically for this truck, but they are the same header Mike Nutt is running on his 69. They should work, or come close enough for some minor trimming. But the top flange of the 67 frame is wider than the later models. I guess the 67 wasn't available with a big block so the factory didn't make the cuts in the top flange until 68. Look at any later model, you'll see a long narrower portion in the top flange, right where the exhaust would need it. That and the fact the 67 frames aren't dimpled for a power steering box is the only differences I know of.

Thanks

[slammed1]

There are 3-4 current build threads with clear pictures of the frt frame horns but dont know if they are the year you need. just remember small grinding isnt going to hurt if you go sparingly for where you need and dont make straight line cuts,try to keep app trimming and cuts rounded especially ion the corners.

I will take a daylight picture tomorrow for you of my frt frame since my engine is out and no frt sheet metal.

[kevncar]

Perfect, thanks a lot.

[slammed1]

This is a few crappy pics of my 72 that had a 454 with headers in it at one time. I had found a big block long bed at a salvage yard and traded my 454 exh manifolds straight across for the headers and engine mount stands off the big block truck.The stands in the picture are back to a small block set.

[kevncar]

Thanks for all your help. It's hard to tell but it looks like at least the drivers side has the cut. I think the rolled up portion makes the cut not noticeable on the pass side maybe. Do me a favor and pull a dimension of the top rail's width for me. Specifically right near the engine mount stands.

Thanks again

[slammed1]

The lower rails do appear wider than the top rails which are narrower and I can see right behind the stand on the right that it gets narrower towards the rear and on the left the frame starts tapering in right in frt of the left stand.

Seems from the mounts rearward they squeeze out some and then come back in as the frame rail starts to drop back.I guess this thinner narrower top rail inthe rear of the motor stands are for the exhaust manifolds or headers clearance. Your 67 must have the top frame rails as wide as the lowers from hearing what your saying.

here are my rough measurments,if I need more accurate I can try in the day light.
On this picture you can see between the 2" and 1 3/4" mark that the lower rail starts to get thinner also right where the two brake lines are.