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Body Modifications, Part 2
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This is a section that we will be updating as the body modifications are added.
Trunk Latch Installation
Since Mark shaved the handle and latch mechanism from the stock trunk lid a new latch was required. A VW Rabbit hood latch provided the starting point. Shown in the photo from left to right, the stock latch after drilling and cutting the tack welds away to separate the latch mechanism from the housing, a new machined stainless part to replace the oval shaped housing and a machined aluminum block that bolts into the original latch holes in the trunk lid. This block provides a mounting point for the spring and plunger. Measure the angle difference between the block and housing interface to determine the correct angle for the plunger and it’s tapped hole, (Mark’s worked out to 12° ).
A hood release cable from a ’92 Cutlass was long enough to route into the interior behind the driver’s door. The original cable hole in the latch was drilled and slotted to accept the molded cable end. A new cable stop was crimped to the end of the cable in addition to the lock screw.
A mounting hole was cut in the tailpan support and holes drilled for mounting screws. An additional hole was drilled in the driver’s side tailpan brace to utilize the firewall grommet that came on the cable. With everything bolted in place check for smooth operation and adjust as necessary.
Spare Tire Installation
Mark intends his coupe to be a driver so he thought carrying a spare would be prudent, but didn’t want to give up a lot of space in the process. A 16" space saver spare from a late model ‘Vette fit the bill. Make sure whatever wheel you choose will clear your brake calipers! To mount the spare Mark used a piece of 2"aluminum tubing with a threaded boss welded to it. An aluminum knob from a industrial catalog will provide the clamping force against the round aluminum retainer Mark machined.
Some right angle tabs were cut from some square steel tubing and welded to the floor and package shelf support to mount the tube.
With the spare mounted there is still access to the battery and sizeable trunk space.
Copyright © 1999-2004 Bob Shetrone