X-Brace?

[rdavidson52]

Has anyone run across, or come up wth a design, for an x-brace t mount on the underside? I've an '84 Pininfarina Azzura. Thanks

[kmead]

Do you mean one like the add on unit IAP has offered for the Alfa Spider?

Haven't ever seen one for a Fiat 124 Spider.

[htchevyii]

I'd love to see a combination skin plate/crossmember brace. Protect the pan and strengthen up the weak crossmember/framerails a bit. Brady, are you listening?

[v6spider]

That is EXACTLY what I will be doing once the car is on the rotisserie. I think it only makes sense seeing how am I running a ponied up v6 as versed to the stock power plant. But what is stronger? An X style brace or some other design? I am looking for maximum strength with the smallest amount of added weight.

Thanks!
Rob

[rdavidson52]

Yes. I was thinking something similar to IAP's on the Alfa. But, I think for strength, a combination of "X" and "H" placing a cross brace between midway between the ends, and boxing the four corners (ends) into an enclosed rectangle. Then, the skid plate along with it. That will add weight, but, if done in aluminum, not too much and provide exceptional strength and protection.

[v6spider]

What I am interested in doing is something welded in so aluminum won't work in my situation. Although I see where you are going and it sounds like it should work well for you.

I'll have to take a look at the design of the Alfa one and see if any its design will work in my situation. One thing I am doing is creating framework to strengthen the transmission mounting area. I am going to use 16 gauge square and rectangular tubing and basically connect the front sub framing to the rear - all welded in the original framework. I think it will be stronger that way.

Cheers!
Rob

[Daniel]

if done in aluminum, not too much and provide exceptional strength and protection.

Aluminum isn't a forgiving material not a good ideal to use that for this application ! after being flexed enough
times will crack, chromoly steel tubing would be a much better choice .

[v6spider]

Aluminum is very popular for use in racing as a structural material. So I don't think that it is as prone to cracking as what you are saying. Depending on hardness(just like steel..) aluminum can be very malable probably more so than steel. The only concern I would have is electrolysis because of the dissimilar metals. Also I believe that bolting in the aluminum framework will not be as stiff as welding in steel. I think one could use less steel tubing and be stronger will not adding as much weight by creating a bolt-in frame-work.

just my two cents..LOL

Rob

[rdavidson52]

v6spider, you make an excellent point. I should have thought of that. I've seen corrosion occur when two different metals are in constant contact with each other. Thanks for the reminder.

[v6spider]

v6spider, you make an excellent point. I should have thought of that. I've seen corrosion occur when two different metals are in constant contact with each other. Thanks for the reminder.

It was just a thought... I took a look at the one on IAP... it is pretty simple... I think just making it out of 16 gauge square tubing would be better/stiffer. Adding more attachment points may be better too...one reason I am building mine permanently welded in is that it will be stiffer as I will weld it from one end to the other into the existing structure.

i realize not everyone will have that option though...

Rob

[Daniel]

i am going to drill a large hole through the sides of my engine block and run a brace to my shock towers
that way !!!!!! ( they say) "the fastest way from point A to point B is a straight line " so i am running
with that .

[v6spider]

i am going to drill a large hole through the sides of my engine block and run a brace to my shock towers
that way !!!!!! ( they say) "the fastest way from point A to point B is a straight line " so i am running
with that .

Go daniel Go!