Put simply, which type of subframe connector is better, the bolt-in type or welded ones? What's a good brand to go with? Looking to get some in the near future, as I've heard they will help with T-top rattles and body shakes.

 

Weld

 

I've got bolt-in's...

Couldnt be happier.... AND I still got my fuel lines

 

Welded would definitely be your best bet. The bolted up types can eventually come loose/shear the bolts due to body flex.

As for brands, it depends on what you're looking for and your budget.

 

bolt on's are usually more $$$ but they could be weleded as well !!

 

I would highly recommend going weld in over bolt on. I would worry about the bolts backing out if you drive on bumpy roads.

 

Some one told me to get the bolt on ones and then have them welded in. He said that that it was alot easier to install. I don't have them, just telling you what he said. BTW he has a camar and works at a local speed shop.

 

I like SLP's SFCs best, but I am torn between getting cheap used bolt in's or buying new weld only. I guess I could weld the bolt in if I wanted to.

-Dustin-

 

Welded. I've seen a magazine article that showed the "tears" in the frame that bolt-in SFC's caused. You are trying to connect the front and rear of the car together, rigidly. Its going to be very hard to get a truly rigid connection relying on the friction developed between the bolts, washers and frame metal. Eventually, somthing is going to come apart. Even it is doesn't tear anything, you will lose the effectiveness of the connectors as friction wears down the mating surfaces.

 

"So let it be written....so let it be done." Ditto on that Fred. Just had mine welded in on Friday. I went with the BRM replicas from a guy on EBAY. Excellently made but thicker at 1 3/4.

 

I installed Competition Engineering boxed bolt on SFC's and noticed very little difference in stiffness after bolting them on. They are very similar to BMR and others. Where they bolt up in the rear to the control arm mount is very solid but the front mounting point was lousy, you had to drill your own holes through the frame/floor for the bolts, that was the weak point. I later had the front welded to the subframe, huge difference, much stiffer afterwards.

 

ok call me blonde what does still having your fuel lines have to do with subframe connecters

 

When welding on SFC's on the front driver side the weld point is right next to the fuel line. You have to be very carefull welding that point, some people have caught their cars on fire from hitting the fuel line while welding that spot.

 

Some guys end up burning the fuel lines when they weld up the SFC's. The Fuel line runs very close to the front drivers side weld area. We used some aluminum flashing to shield the lines while we welded mine.

Edit: Gregg, your too fast on the draw.

Dan

 

thanks i learned something today