difference in 64 and 65 GTO frames

[Frank Grimes]

anyone know the difference made from 64 to 65 to stiffen the frame? I read in a book of the history of the gto that there was some stiffeneing done but didnt mention what was done.

[Widetracker]

I don't know, but my father has a 65 I can look at. If you take some pictures of your 64 I could look for differences.

[Karch]

They had experienced cracking of the rear crossmember in the 4 speed cars, so they added the stamped re-inforcement braces after the start of the '65 model year.

I believe there was also a retrofit for the cars that didn't get them before the tsb, but I am only going off of memory from about 8 years ago when I read about it.

From what I remember reading, they only had them on manual trans cars, but I added them to mine anyways, though I don't know it will be enough once I get some traction, even with a slush box.

[Frank Grimes]

oh cool thanks for the info!
I was thinking of reinforcing all the cross members. my welder could only handle it if I used the flux core wire but I don't know if its good to use flux wire for stuff like this.

[Goatman]

No difference between flux core and non flux in this instance. The flux will probably penetrate a little bit better (given the same heat settings). But, there is more mess to clean up afterwards...

[Kal]

In my Pontiac GTO Restoration Guide.

They note :

Both the 1964 and the 1965 used a perimeter, swept-hip-design frame. The was one major difference between the frames used for the two years: The 1964 frame used a riveted rear cross-member: the cross-member in 1965 was welded. Convertible frames were boxed, and carried the same part number as the optional 1965 heavy-duty frame. All frames were painted gloss black.

That was word for word... hope it helps

[MonzaRacer]

Actually I prefer to use a slightly smaller diameter(023-030) with gas rather than 035 flux core. In my opinion the flux core takes more heat and makes one good awful mess unless the frame and extra metal are clean.
Any one got a frame to fit a 64 Tempest/GTO or will a Chevelle frame fit(easier to fit my BBCin) as a friend has an old car that he bought new off the show room floor but if i get it it may need a frame(or tubbed slightly)and I may set it up to fit big rubber under it to burn corners.
Lee

[Frank Grimes]

gto/chevelle frames and cutlass frames are the same

[Goatman]

Yep, just not the Monty's, even though they are called "A-bodies" back in the 70's...

[MonzaRacer]

Yeah but Montes are 70-72 and second gen A body and I dont think they would fit a 64 Tempest.

[MonzaRacer]

Oh and the Monte was on a 4dr frame.

[pav8427]

64-67 a-bodies are all the same 115" wb except wagons and caminos. 68-72 had 112 for 2 drs and 116 for caminos and wagons.
I believe all are set up for any gm power plant available from each marque. Convertible frames had two exrta body mounts. There are a few differences, but I believe all will bolt in under the appropriate years.

Doug