C notch angle

[halfcutratrods]

Got a couple questions for you I have searched the bible but can’t find the answers. How much articulation does rear diff have to have? Can my notch be on a angle/cambered in? My predicament is I put brakes back on the diff to find next to no clearance for hoses (needs 5mm) my factory rails already angle in 12degree at top can I carry this on which should sort my issue or does it need to be vertical? I will build notch to maintain the same thickness width over whole length and cross member at top of notch. Its on a 54 Dodge Kingsway chassis going to be air-bagged and being in lockdown cant get in contact with a certifier until we're let back out and would like to get some work done in the mean time Thanks Mike

[Chris]

Hi Mike

There is no rule for the amount of articulation, however, suspension must have at least 40mm of droop from ride height and sufficient compression so full travel is unlikely to be reached during normal vehicle operation on smooth road surfaces when fully laden.

Suspension must exhibit no scraping, binding, or contact between the wheel and tyre assembly, and any part of the vehicle structure or body panels during normal vehicle operation and also provide the vehicle with a well controlled ride on uneven surfaces.

As for notching the chassis, if I understand correctly what you are suggesting is narrowing or "pinching" the rails from in front of the rear axle? If not, can you post up a quick stick-figure sketch of what the frame looks like now and what you intend on doing just so I can get my head around what you are asking.

Cheers

Chris

[halfcutratrods]

Hi Chris thanks for the response I've added some doodling to my pictures, wanting to angle "hoops" in about 12degrees with a bridge at the top, trying to avoid stepping chassis in. If only need 40mm of droop i may not have issues just want to cover my bases. My notch pattern is a work in progress and will include long "tails" and plug welds. hope my pictures make sense. Thanks again Mike

[Chris]

Hi Mike

I think what you are proposing is possible providing suitable materials and methods of attachment are used, I will have to discuss it with the tech-team and come back to you.

Who is your certifier? I can get in touch with them and ask for their feedback also.

Cheers

Chris

[halfcutratrods]

Hi Chris,

Thanks for the response, I have not engage a certifier yet as have just been stripping car up til lockdown was going to use Peter Watson in Gore as have been told he visits my area at times (Wanaka) all my work will only be tacked in place for now until i can get my engineer friend to weld it all off so there are no welding issues come inspection time. All my materials are 4mm or above as I believe this is the minimum.

Thanks again Mike

[Chris]

Gidday Mike,

What you are proposing is fine, providing suitable structure and materials are used.

Cheers

Chris