subframe connectors - when?

Locomotion said

If the engines weigh about the same, it shouldn't change the weight distribution much, if any, either. But the overall weight and distribution will start changing if you start upgrading the rest of the car to be more compatible with the V-8 - brakes, 904-727, bigger radiator, etc. Check the rest of the front & rear suspension parts for wear while you're at it

"When" you install the frame connectors shouldn't matter much, but "after" would be better. It's most important to keep the chassis and suspension level and properly "loaded" during installation. Welding them to or through the floor wherever possible will increase their effectiveness. If adding a roll bar too, it should be tied into the frame connectors, usually around the main hoop.

Welding along body panel seams is also helpful in stiffening the overall structure instead of relying on factory spot welds.

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Thank you, great feedback. Yes, I'm familiar with the proper technique for installing the frame connectors. Also, I built the suspension for a V8 from the start, i.e., heavier torsion bars, 8 3/4 rearend, heavier leafs, front and rear swaybars, gusseted K frame, 15" rims, front power disk brakes, larger rear drums.

I was more thinking about the lateral weight distribution of the two engines, the slant vs a v8, is the slant due to its slant weighted more heavily on the passenger side? I may have to adjust the T-bars after the swap, for sure, but I was wondering if the slant's lateral weight distribution would throw off my suspension vs what appears to be a more laterally balanced weight distribution of a V8. Given I don't know, I agree with you, probably best to install the v8, get the suspension where I want it, then install the frame connectors - better safe than sorry.