Well, since I finally started welding my chassis, I guess I should start my build log. Most of you know I am building a Lotus 19 replica for the road. I bought a body back in the summer of '09 from Curtis Unlimited, and since then have been buying bits and pieces for the build. I still haven't figured out what motor I'll be using, but it's gonna be mounted longitudinally, paired with a VW trans (914 or bus)...
I decided to get the project going by building the cockpit section first. I really wanted to get the look of the 19, by using the front hoops. I plan on adding the steel sheet with the punched holes later. The width is 38", with an inner width of 36".
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The plan is to look like this:
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Still working on the seats. I had some galvanized sheet laying around so I figured I'd use that and just rivet it to the frame. I realize I should've wrapped the sheet around the round tubes for better rivet placement, but the sheet wasn't very pliable. Besides, with my generous use of rivets, it's very solid. I might try it on the next one. Eventually they'll get some padding then covered...
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Next up is to build the front section. The plan is to make a modified "box" using the book measurements. I'm using Miata uprights and I plan to use Jack's A-arm kit. This is the daunting part for me, but that's what you guys are for. Once I get the front suspension done, with the correct track width, I can set the front section of the body on the frame and get the proper measurements to tie the two sections together...
That's all for now.
Joe