BBC/corvair box

[fletcherson]

Do any of you have bbc with a corvair box on top of the frame? I am second guessing my current box and am trying to decide weather to go with a top mounted corvair box, a bottom mounted vega box, or just buy a rack. I also have standard shift, so clutch linkage is a concern.

 

[swatman260]

I have a BBC with a corvair box mounted to the top of my frame. I wound up welding a mounting plate directly to the frame, and then mounted the steering box to that. I can post photos later in the day if you need some, but dont have access to them at the moment.
The only real issue that I see with the setup is that I had to turn the box slightly to make room for the spark plugs. This means that the pitman arm does not travel perfectly parallel to the frame, but it is very close.

 

[Hackerbilt]

Mine does as well.
Clearance is tight but my engine is a bit low in the frame.
Hoping to raise it an inch over the winter. Corvair box steers like a dream!

 

[fletcherson]

I have a BBC with a corvair box mounted to the top of my frame. I wound up welding a mounting plate directly to the frame, and then mounted the steering box to that. I can post photos later in the day if you need some, but dont have access to them at the moment.
The only real issue that I see with the setup is that I had to turn the box slightly to make room for the spark plugs. This means that the pitman arm does not travel perfectly parallel to the frame, but it is very close.

Thanks, the room under the head is exactly what I am concerned with. A pic would be great when you get a chance, no rush.

 

[Hackerbilt]

I will be in my shop later today and I'll get a pic for you too. It's definately tight to the head...maybe 1/8" clearance on mine if I remember correctly.

 

[409T]

Thanks, the room under the head is exactly what I am concerned with.

Got room to put a 1/4" or 3/8" spacer in the motor mount to raise the engine slightly?

 

[fletcherson]

Got room to put a 1/4" or 3/8" spacer in the motor mount to raise the engine slightly?

I need to replace the motor mount pads too, they are deteriorated. It looks like it would be ok with a spacer. Especially since I moved the cab back about 3/4" in an attempt to squeeze out every bit of available leg room between the seat and petals. Trying to make this thing somewhat comfortable is turning out to be a real chore. Is it possible to notch the frame to allow the box to sit lower? I don't have one for mock up, just curious.

 

[409T]

Is it possible to notch the frame to allow the box to sit lower?

Maybe "Z" the frame in the front and add the same amount to the kick-up in the rear. I don't know that doing so would gain you any leg room however. Actually, that's probably going to raise the trans tunnel, which might result in less leg room.

 

[Hackerbilt]

Man...been up to my eyes and didn't get a picture yet, BUT...did verify something that I completely forgot about my steering.
The box is offset from the column and the steering shaft has two universal joints inside the cowl to get the column back in line with the driver.
I'm not fond of the U-joint setup as it gets slightly in the way of your toes sometimes as you press on the brake.
One of those $$$ steer-clear setups might work better but I honestly can't justify buying one to save scuffing my sneakers! LoL

 

[choppinczech]

When that Steer Clear patent times out there'll be a lot more alternatives out there.

I would have used one too. But the $600 price tag is ridiculous.