More G's for the TA - BMR Fabrication Install, Part II
In the ongoing quest for increased traction from our 1995 Pontiac Trans Am, we've elected to remove some of the twist from the chassis.
Our strategy: Install some race-ready subframe connectors from BMR Fabrication.
This task is easily completed on a drive-on lift, as you'll need to perform some of the tasks with the car at ride height. We paid a visit to Finish Line Performance to use thier facilities. Our first step is to disconnect the lower rear control arm bolt and slide the BMR subframe connector over the rear arm mount box. Then slip the control arm bolts back in, but don't tighten them down yet.
Next, support the front area of the subframe connector and hold it tightly to the floor of the car. It may flex a little, but it's important to have it in place properly.
With the subframe connector held tightly in place, mark the attatchment points on the bottom of the car. These are weld-in pieces, so we had to mark where we planned to clean the metal and weld the connector in.
Then you can clean the area with a sanding disc so the welds hold correctly.
Re-support the subframe connector, then you can wled them in place. Start with small tacks around the perimiter of the mount pads, then finish stitching up between the welds to minimize warpage.
Finally, go back and torque the lower rear control arm bolts with the car at ride height. Our 1995 Trans Am is a convertible, so we noticed the increased chassis stiffness instantly. The car should have come with these subframe connectors from the factory! The BMR Fabrication pieces fit as promised, looked great, and worked as intended. We're happy.
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