68 Firebird Convertible Minitub issue - Need Input on fit issue

[digitalman2112]

Issue: The convertible top body mounts (where the male hinge bracket and the b-pillar support brace mount) are located in a place that prevents the new tubs from being mounted.

Here's the body mount that is in the way (same problem on both sides)

Attachment 159886


I welded in braces to hold the brackets in their original positions. From my initial attempts to fit the tub on the passenger side, there is as much as a 1/2 inch of movement needed, even with the outer portion of that bracket that contacts the tub bent flat.

As I see it the options are:
1) Move the brackets which changes the positioning of the convertible top, but is possibly adjustable (The fabric top is already on the frame and I'd like to ensure that I can reinstall it and have it fit)
2) Mod the bracket to remove material to keep the tub intact (I don't know that these brackets can be replaced easily, so Im hesitant to mod them)
3) Mod the tub to clear the bracket (probably the easiest option)

Those that have mini-tubbed convertibles - did you have this same issue, and how did you resolve it?

[digitalman2112]

Anyone have suggestions of someone to contact for input?

I've called Detroit Speed technical support and they basically said "its not done with convertibles much..." and had no input.

At this point, I'm stuck looking for input - I have other things I can work on, but I'd like to keep moving forward with the mini-tub and quadralink install...

[shelteredchevelle]

Try ABC, they aren't F-body oriented, but they do know this stuff. They've been really helpful to me. 810-614-3730

[digitalman2112]

Thanks for the suggestion!

Try ABC, they aren't F-body oriented, but they do know this stuff. They've been really helpful to me. 810-614-3730

[dhutton]

http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/pai...ble-wheelwell/

Don

[dhutton]

These aren’t DSE minitubs but a useful pic.

Don

[LonnieJ]

Hello I went through the same issue. To resolve mine, I separated the flange piece from the bracket. Then ground down the bracket then reshaped and rewelded the flange piece to the bracket. Hopefully the attached pic will help make more sense Sorry, I can't keep the pic from rotating:(

Lonnie

[digitalman2112]

These aren’t DSE minitubs but a useful pic.

Don

Very helpful, thank you!

- - - Updated - - -

Hello I went through the same issue. To resolve mine, I separated the flange piece from the bracket. Then ground down the bracket then reshaped and rewelded the flange piece to the bracket. Hopefully the attached pic will help make more sense Sorry, I can't keep the pic from rotating:(

This is quite helpful, thank you!

- - - Updated - - -

http://www.superchevy.com/how-to/pai...ble-wheelwell/

Don

I have that printed as reference when I'm working, but it looked like their bracket cleared without issue, so I was confused and wanted to seek input before I started hacking metal!