My, er, prototype aluminum STB (pics)
#1
Senior Member
True Car Nut
Thread Starter
Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: In your garage, swipin' da lug nutz
Posts: 3,067
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like
on
1 Post
My, er, prototype aluminum STB (pics)
So I was browsing the local homegrown speed and performance shop (that would be Lowes) and I stumbled across the metal section. Originally I was looking for beams to make my engine hanger for the trans swap, but something else caught my eye.
It'* still in the rough stages, as I do not know if I want to keep it natural, or polish and clear it, or give it a brushed finish then clear. But it does shave a bit of weight off compared to the factory. And no negative effects on handling.
So, what do you guys think of it?
It'* still in the rough stages, as I do not know if I want to keep it natural, or polish and clear it, or give it a brushed finish then clear. But it does shave a bit of weight off compared to the factory. And no negative effects on handling.
So, what do you guys think of it?
#2
Senior Member
True Car Nut
Join Date: Sep 2006
Location: Somewhere south of Ottawa with your girlfriend driving faster then you.
Posts: 3,277
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Interesting I kinda like the look of that.. Contrasts nicely with the rest of that drop dead sexy engine compartment.
#3
Senior Member
Posts like a Supercharger
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: Alberta, Canada
Posts: 170
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
That looks really sharp. I'd just clear it like that. I really like the look. It'* custom without being tacky or ricey looking like most aftermarket STBs.
#5
Senior Member
True Car Nut
Thread Starter
Join Date: Aug 2004
Location: In your garage, swipin' da lug nutz
Posts: 3,067
Likes: 0
Received 1 Like
on
1 Post
I want to say 1/8th inch, but don't quote me on that.
Thanks for the comments guys. I kinda like the look as-is myself, but I know it won't stay like that for too long if it isn't protected.
Thanks for the comments guys. I kinda like the look as-is myself, but I know it won't stay like that for too long if it isn't protected.
#6
Senior Member
Certified GM nut
Join Date: Dec 2002
Location: plattsburgh NY
Posts: 2,037
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
I really like the idea. I want to see some more ideas on it, espically from some of the elders
Side Note-- As many know i recently removed my engine and upon doing that i took the brace off and thought to myself that it was suprisingly heavy. This might be a weigh to shave maybe like a solid 5 pounds off very easily.
Side Note-- As many know i recently removed my engine and upon doing that i took the brace off and thought to myself that it was suprisingly heavy. This might be a weigh to shave maybe like a solid 5 pounds off very easily.
#8
Junior Member
Posts like a Ricer Type-R
Not a good idea. You want what weight you have on the front for traction. And to make it worse, Aluminum has less tensile strength than steel.
You have decreased the ability of the bar to resist cornering forces and improve handling.
If the bar were SOLID aluminum, it MIGHT be better, but I'd have to run the numbers to be sure.
I suggest you go back to the steel bar.
You have decreased the ability of the bar to resist cornering forces and improve handling.
If the bar were SOLID aluminum, it MIGHT be better, but I'd have to run the numbers to be sure.
I suggest you go back to the steel bar.
#9
Senior Member
Posts like a Supercharger
Join Date: Oct 2006
Location: Alberta, Canada
Posts: 170
Likes: 0
Received 0 Likes
on
0 Posts
Keep in mind all that weight over the front wheels is hurting handling, though. That'* why front wheel drive cars understeer, or push. With a NA 3800 I doubt traction is a huge issue.
I agree on the strength thing, though.
But I stand by my comments that it looks friggin' good!
I agree on the strength thing, though.
But I stand by my comments that it looks friggin' good!
#10
Senior Member
Certified Car Nut
IMO worrying about 1-2lbs MAX and traction on an L27 is a bit of a stretch. Unless it'* thicker, it might not be the best idea.
My issue though with anything added to the OE mounts, is that it wont be the exact dimensions most likely, and will give more points for flex, or worse while under load, and have more slop.
My issue though with anything added to the OE mounts, is that it wont be the exact dimensions most likely, and will give more points for flex, or worse while under load, and have more slop.