Transmission
Crossmember Modifications:
In order to accomodate dual exhaust with
full-length headers, some modifications to the stock crossmember
were necessary.
Click here to see how I installed a 700-R4 trans
into my Monte using the stock crossmember.
Background Info:
Monte Carlos and other G-bodies used different crossmembers
depending on year and/or transmission. Most Turbo 350 and Turbo
200 equipped cars used a "diagonal" style crossmember
(this is the one my car has). When the Turbo 200-4R became
available, A "straight across" style crossmember was
used. Some early 80's cars can use ONLY the diagonal-style
crossmember. Later years had mounting bosses on the frame to use
either style crossmember.
The passenger side of the crossmember is designed to clear the
stock cat and single exhaust pipe. On the drivers side, there is
no clearance, forcing you to bend the pipe under the crossmember,
which is not optimal. To correct this, I notched the stock
crossmember (A). I marked the part that needs to clear the
exhaust pipe, then cut it with a sawzall. Being the crossmember
is hollow, I used some 3/16" x 2" wide steel to box off
the notched area(B). The pieces were traced onto the 2" wide
steel, which I then cut using a sawzall and a hacksaw.
Once the steel was trimmed to fit, I had a buddy weld it. It's
not the prettiest thing, but it works. Just for kicks, we added
some triangular supports to the sides (C). This is probably not
necessary. I hit it with some black Russel frame epoxy spray
paint before bolting it back into the car.
This gave me enough clearance for
3" pipes. G-Force
Performance offers custom made
crossmembers.
Here is my finished exhaust system. Click on my exhaust page for more
info.