Butters "Winter Upgrades". . Starting a Little Early

Unfortunately, the HDK 8HP70 trans X member won't work for my application... My engine/trans is only 5/8" forward, where HDK is 1" forward on his K members... yes, really, that 3/8" makes all the difference. The lower mount was a good fit but it's intended to be used with the upper hoop mounts, that fill a gap between the lower mount to x member. It could be filled with shims, I suppose. The hoop and hoop mounts was where I ran into clearance issues. Drivers side was rubbing the trans and the passenger side was just really close to the trans plug, meaning the trans has to be dropped a little to add or remove the plug. Plus the hoop rubs on the rear of the trans housing.. barely. I spent most of Saturday, trying to figure out a way to make it all work.. Just didn't see a way without altering the kit somehow. And if I'm going to start altering something, I might as well just make it.

So yesterday, I just went ahead and mocked up my own lower and created a new upper hoop design. I plan to weld it in, but it could be created as a bolt on version as well. It should give me the lowest trans tunnel height possible.. with my setup or stock. I took my cardboard hoop patterns to a friend that operates a local steel/truck bed/dirt car chassis shop, to have my upper hoop cnc cut and formed. I've not seen another like it.. hopefully that's not a bad thing haha.

I did share my drawings and ideas with Denny, just in case he wants to pursue some of the stock location stuff. He's more than welcome to any ideas that may help.. I promise, I won't get butt hurt and scream that someone stole my idea.

Also, a huge thanks to HemiDenny, for allowing me the opportunity to at least try it. The agreement was.. send it back within 30 days, (undamaged) for credit back, if it doesn't work out.