1961 Rambler Custom Corvette Swap
Rambler + Corvette
Our plan is to use the corvette frame and swap it onto the Classic Rambler lightweight unibody.
Measure
We began by scanning the Rambler and Corvette with our precise measuring instrument the FARO arm. This tool allows us to get measurements off the car and translate them into a CAD model.
Design
We then began designing the frame, suspension mounts, seating position, engine and transmission fitment and wheel and tire fitment to see how everything will fit together before the manufacturing process begins.
Frame
Once the designing process was complete we began manufacturing the frame by bending and welding the steel that will connect to our Corvette suspension.
Custom Frame Alignment
The frame was then welded to the existing Corvette frame.
Lincoln Aviator
We decided on using the floor pan out of a 2003 Lincoln aviator. This floor allowed us to use seating location as well as additional reinforcing structure across the floor pan to the frame.
Seating
Utilizing the Aviator floor opened up the possibility of the addition of heated and cooled seats.
LS1 T56
We then placed the engine and transmission into the frame to begin making our firewall and transmission tunnel.
Firewall
Our firewall was then installed to our frame and floor.
Roll Cage
We then cut the floors and firewall out of the Rambler to fit our roll cage. This way we can weld the tops before hand to get the cage as tight as possible.
Body
We then were able to fit the body for the first time using our cage around the body to maintain the body shape.
Cage and Body Welding
We then welded the body and cage officially to the frame for the final time. We also were able to fit our aluminum 20x12in wheels.
Motor Install
After all the bodywork we installed our LS1 and 6 speed into the car for the final time. We began wiring up the engine and adjusting suspension after test driving the car.
Front End
We then installed the front end and hooked up lights and final trim details.
Future Modifications
The Rambler will be getting a front tilt hood while retaining the stock hood for easy access to the rear of the motor. Air conditioning will also be installed using the LS HVAC system.