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4 door hard top to convertible??

4K views 2 replies 3 participants last post by  hot57 
#1 ·
hey guys, got a 57 4 door hard top that just fell in my lap that was 100% complete and in great shape. i've had it about 3 yrs and i want to cut the top off and make it a custom convertible. how do i reinforess the frame? and i'm not opposed to welding the back doors for more strength? any input would be helpful, thanks
 
#2 ·
Leamicheal, Why kill a 100% complete car? why not just build up the beaut?

What your wanting to do isn't as hard as you think. Afterall lincoln made a convertable 4 door with suicide rear doors that looked great. Just reinforce the frame for frame twist. You could box the frame for great strength and good looks, or you could just choose to add some steel to reinforce it. As for the rear doors, you don't need to weld them shut, suicide them. Just add some steel square tubing to support and strengthen the body and you'll be good to go in no time.

I'm a certafied body tech, so if you have any questions feel free to e-mail or send me a message on here.

Faust
 
#3 ·
the frame is already made of square tubing so you can't very well box it. The 57 convertible has a rather massive x that is welded inside the the frame. it has a opening in the center for the drive shaft.I think this is available aftermarket for about 800.00.Also the windshield frame is different. a-1 chevrolet ?? has all the parts shown in their catalog to do a proper conversion. good luck, and Let me know how it goes.
 
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