Ghia chassis subframe - Worthwhile idea or WT*?
Posted: Wed Jul 31, 2024 5:46 pm
Here are some preliminary drawings of the chassis bracing I am considering for my convertible. The drawing is very close to scale. I based it on my measured pan drawings. The bracing aims to improve torsional rigidity, add some side impact protection, and remain mostly hidden. I may have gone a bit "Captain Overkill" on this one but CAD (Sketchup) is fun.
I would love feedback from any engineers, chassis builders, or racers on the soundness of the design and "Is it worth the effort". Weight is not a concern since the car will have enough power (Subaru motor) to compensate for the added weight. This car will be street and highway only. I am primarily interested in safety (side impact) and stability. This is a rough draft of what I envision. I have added additional triangulation (not shown) based on feedback.
The intention is to make this a bolt-on addition to the VW chassis. The floors would most likely be bolt-on rather than welded unless welding them would add to the side impact safety and rigidity.
Blue = 2" x .125" round tubing (mainly to tir the front and rear suspension together)
White = 1.5" x .125" round tubing (bracing and support, as well as attachment points)
Greenish/Greyish = 1.5" x .125" square tubing (I can't tell what color that is)
Red = VW chassis components
Top View
Bottom View
Side View
Front View
[i
Rear View
Perspective View
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Emil
I would love feedback from any engineers, chassis builders, or racers on the soundness of the design and "Is it worth the effort". Weight is not a concern since the car will have enough power (Subaru motor) to compensate for the added weight. This car will be street and highway only. I am primarily interested in safety (side impact) and stability. This is a rough draft of what I envision. I have added additional triangulation (not shown) based on feedback.
The intention is to make this a bolt-on addition to the VW chassis. The floors would most likely be bolt-on rather than welded unless welding them would add to the side impact safety and rigidity.
Blue = 2" x .125" round tubing (mainly to tir the front and rear suspension together)
White = 1.5" x .125" round tubing (bracing and support, as well as attachment points)
Greenish/Greyish = 1.5" x .125" square tubing (I can't tell what color that is)
Red = VW chassis components
Top View
Bottom View
Side View
Front View
[i
Rear View
Perspective View
-----
Emil