What goes goes on the chassis first... engine or body?

[emf1367]

I'm in the process of a frame off restoration (don't know why they call it that since it's the body that's off the frame) and I need to know the easiest way to put things back together.

I pulled the engine to rebuild it and thats when I decided to do a complete restoration. I completed the restoration of the chassis, engine, and transmission. I'm thinking about putting them in the chassis before I place the body back on the car; is this the easiest way to do it? If so, is it best to install the radiator after the engine but before the body is installed?

I intend to paint the body while it's off the chassis.

Your thoughts and ideas are appreciated.

 

[firefighter-C3]

try this link,www.vettefinders.com/index.cfm/fuseaction/79part1.htm , it might help with your sequence.
Good luck, Jeff

 

[JohnZ]

I've done seven Corvette body-off restorations, and I always install the fresh powertrain back in the chassis (and run it that way for cam break-in so everything's out in the open and easy to get to) before dropping the body back on. While I'm doing the engine and chassis, my painter's doing the body, and both are usually done at about the same time; speeds up the overall process. Photo below is from the pre-run of my tube-frame Grand Sport.

 

[ratflinger]

Righteous!

 

[emf1367]

Thanks for the information and tips. I thought putting the body on after the engine would be the best way to go but it's always nice to get confirmation from those with experience.

 

[emf1367]

Do you install the radiator support, radiator, and shroud before or after installing the body? It seems like it would be easier to install prior to the body but I also think it might be difficult to lower the body with them installed.