Running no subframe bushings

[Oregon]

Assuming you have transmission tunnel clearance, modified shifter location, hood clearance, etc... Is there any issue with running no subframe bushings?

This is on a 69 Nova, so I would keep the additional puck at the firewall mount location.

I'm just not sure if there are floor undulations or something else that would prevent this.

[badazz81z28]

Why would you want to do this? The floor contours may prevent the bolt location to get a flat/clamping area. Also, the hole in the frame is large and the body bushing acts as a "bushing" to ID the hole to the bolt size. If anything I would run something even if it's only 1/4" thick.

[TheJDMan]

I think you could create any number of unseen problems with no mounts. If you want to lower the body I would recommend half-height mounts.

[Oregon]

The point is to lower the car more.

I have half height bushings installed already.

I know people have done this before. Speedtech ran no bushings on their Nova from what I remember.

I figured the floor variations may cause an issue but wanted to see if other people had any insight or experiences with attempting this.

[badazz81z28]

I have seen cars get pretty low with simply working the suspension. I would do that first.

[parsonsj]

Running with no sub-frame bushings is an excellent way to lower the car, and is similar to welding a complete frame to the car. The biggest problems are what you've mentioned above -- transmission clearance, engine to hood clearance, header/exhaust fitment, drive shaft clearance, fender alignment, front tire clearance, steering column alignment, etc. etc.

All solvable problems, and none particularly difficult in and of itself, but the volume of issues is a bit daunting.

As for me, I use full-height bushings from DSE, and avoid all the above.

[Oregon]

I'm running an LS3, T56 Mag, DSE sub, and u-joints for steering. I already had the tunnel modified all the way back with this setup and half height bushings in place. No issues currently. I MAY have room to fudge it as-is with no bushings in-place but was wondering if it was frowned upon or would require additional modification to the floor or surrounding areas.

And yes...I realize this is all more trouble than it's worth.

[Jon @ Hotchkis]

I don't run any bushings on my Nova; make sure you loosen the firewall-column gasket and don't kink any aftermarket brake lines from the master to frame.

[Oregon]

Cool.

I'll probably end up pulling them and double checking clearances at the same time I change out my crossmember.