Frame reinforcement?

[Moparquest72]

Hey, Guys. I'm going to drop a mild-build 440 in my 65 satellite convertible. The car was born with a 361. I was wondering whether anyone could say whether or not the frame would need to be reinforced? Anyone ever done this or know anything about it?
Thanks!

 

[Mark B]

Being a convertible I would at least install subframe connectors to deal with the added torque.

 

[1967coronet]

As long as the original frame is solid I would say its ok, both engines are big blocks so weight should be close, you said mild built , so boxes ect should be fine as long as all of it is rot free, Only thing I would add is sub frame connectors, mainly since its a vert and old it could use them even with the 361.

 

[Dennis H]

Does USCartool have an application for subframe connectors for this year? I recommend them. Cracked the windshield the first time I romped on the warmed up 440. Should have put them in first.

 

[Moparquest72]

It looks like USCartool does carry them. Good to know! Thanks!

 

[HT413]

You'll love frame connectors, so I say do it. Not the same car, but my 69 belvedere coupe has frame connectors and it is so stiff that if I jack anywhere on the frame connector, both wheels come off the ground pretty level.

 

[Glenwood]

Does USCartool have an application for subframe connectors for this year? I recommend them. Cracked the windshield the first time I romped on the warmed up 440. Should have put them in first.

crap! one more thing to add to the list

 

[dvw]

We've run a 64 Sport Fury with a hopped up cross ram 440 with a 5 speed manual for about 10 years. Subframes connectors, no other chassis mods. Drives very well.
Doug

 

[64 Sportfury]

I have a 64 convertible Sport Fury GenII Hemi 5 speed with Competition Engineering sub-frame connectors and no other frame mods. SS springs with AR Engineering front spring hangers, .920 torsion bars with front and rear sway bars. I put 80,000 mi on it before the current rebuild. It rides nice.

Ernesto