Re: [Amc-list] Convertible conversion?

[Frank Swygert <farna@xxxxxxx>]

There were no 63-64 big car converts, just the 64 American. In 65 there was a Classic 770 and an Ambo 990 convert as well as the American. 

A convert conversion could be done with all the bracing under the floor. I'd start with nice 1/8" (10 or 11 gauge) channel "subframe connectors" WELDED in good, then add cross bracing from corner to corner where the unit body "frame" rails start to kick up in the front and back. There would have to be a removeable plate in the center for driveshaft access/movement. well, not really -- the torque tube could be pulled out from the back along with the axle, but would be a lot of work. What I describe is very similar to the bracing used under 61-63 American converts, and they are really stiff! 

A 65 could be converted to a 64, but it would be a lot of work. The main unit body is the same, but all the "skin" panels, including the rear quarters, were changed. The front clip would be easy enough -- trim a few filler panels and maybe drill a few more mounting holes (change locations on some). Doors could be changed altogether too. The rear quarters would have to be removed and swapped out -- those would be the big pain/most work. 

-----------
Date: Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:34:03 -0500 (EST)
From: adh@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx (Sandwich Maker)

" From: Victor the Cleaner <jonathan@xxxxxxxxxx>
" 
" On Tue, Dec 16, 2008 at 10:38:21PM +0000, Wrambler242@xxxxxxxxxxx wrote:
" 
" > The only ways I would consider doing a roof to convert conversion 
" > would be if a convert was not available in the body style I desired 
" > or I was willing to build with a rollcage and no top!!!
" 
" The 64 Classic is my favourite body style, and afaik it never came out
" of the factory as a ragtop - only the Americans and Ambos (I've got a
" 65 Ambo convertible as well).  So that's why I'm asking - I have no
" desire to reinvent any wheels.  Perhaps someone else can correct me if
" in fact there was a 64 Classic convertible offered.
" 
" And I definitely wouldn't go for the rollcage - just not the right vibe.

if a '64 classic ragtop never existed, imho you'd be best off finding
an ambo ragtop and swapping trim, f&r clips etc.  that way you get all
the chasis reinforcements already built in.

-- 
Frank Swygert
Publisher, "American Motors Cars" 
Magazine (AMC)
For all AMC enthusiasts
http://farna.home.att.net/AMC.html
(free download available!)

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