1971 Cuda

Author Topic: 1971 Cuda  (Read 2072 times)

Offline JohnP

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1971 Cuda
« on: June 24, 2017 - 03:07:02 PM »
I was wondering if someone can help me with dims for the chassis front rails to align correctly when I fit new rails, I have a 1971 Plymouth barracuda with a 6.1 Hemi, Alterktion front suspension street handling. I purchased the car after it was in a front end accident. I require all the driver’s side inner and outer fender, complete front end with all brackets, grill, lights, inner passenger fender panels with trims and fasteners. The upper fire wall may need to be repaired. The passenger outer fender is ok. The driver’s side suspension has been pushed back and damaged the main frame. I have looked on the web to see if I can access the dims for the chassis but no luck. I need some guidance as to the best place to get this information and for new parts.

I think it only correct for me to replace the whole front panels right through to the fire wall to be safe. Hope you can assist me or point me in the correct direction. I live in Durban South Africa and it is hard to access information and parts from here.
I may fly to US if required to do so.
Cheers John




Offline Beekeeper

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Re: 1971 Cuda
« Reply #1 on: June 24, 2017 - 04:05:55 PM »
On this site, search Cuda frame dimensions. There are a few threads with all that info posted for your convenience. You can also buy a nice large schematic on ebay for $10 or so. I did just to keep it on hand while I worked.

Looking at the photo, aside from the obvious hood and driver fender, I'm guessing you will be replacing the driver frame rail, inner fender panel, shock tower if you can't remove and reuse original, radiator supports. It is very possible that the hood hinges were driven rearward into the upper cowl. It is also very possible the passenger frame rail was moved somewhat since the K frame connects the two. I could see some of that force transferring into the passenger rail. Will definitely want to carefully examine you K frame as well for twisting.

In my opinion, this is a doable home project. I have a thread going now (saving a 4 speed JH car) that shows a lot of pictures of me swapping these items out myself at home using a home made jig. My car had rust issues but metal work is metal work. I recommend you remove the hood and fender, then support the car fully on some type of jig you can then take reasonably accurate measurements from. I used six large jack stands with thick U channel steel front/back and then side to side. I shimmed the rails where they touched jack stands to make everything solid and level.

Offline 340-FOUR- BARRELL

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Re: 1971 Cuda
« Reply #2 on: June 24, 2017 - 08:02:38 PM »
I just purchased the 1973 Dodge Challenger Dart Charger Coronet Polara Monaco Chassis Service Manual and 1973 Body Service Manual as a set from an Ebay seller. The Body Service Manual has a chapter dedicated to Body and Frame alignment with what seems to be all the dimensions one would need to fix body and frame damage like your 71 Cuda sustained. Do a search on Ebay and see if a seller is selling a Plymouth BODY Service Manual for a 1971 Cuda. Good luck.

P.S. Took a look on ebay. CD and hard copy are available for 1971 Barracuda. May the force be with you.
« Last Edit: June 25, 2017 - 12:55:42 AM by 340-FOUR- BARRELL »

Offline jimynick

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Re: 1971 Cuda
« Reply #3 on: June 24, 2017 - 10:13:45 PM »
Ouch! That thing got hit hard. The first thought that comes to mind is who is repairing the car? You or a shop? That'll make a big difference in advice. This will NOT be a cheap repair, but as stated, it can be done. You're going to need to buy virtually a complete frt end and the price of the grille alone will make you puke. Let us know and good luck.  :cheers:
PS- welcome to the site!

Offline 69bcuda

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Re: 1971 Cuda
« Reply #4 on: June 25, 2017 - 10:56:15 AM »
Some service manual downloads here..................
http://www.mymopar.com/index.php?pid=109

Offline JohnP

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Re: 1971 Cuda
« Reply #5 on: June 26, 2017 - 06:11:37 AM »
Thanks for the information. I have downloaded the manuals which gives me good information. I have stripped the front out and it is looking like a complete front end except the pass front fender.

Cheers

John

Offline JohnP

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Re: 1971 Cuda
« Reply #6 on: June 26, 2017 - 06:23:26 AM »
I agree ouch. I have stripped the front down and everything but the pass side fender needs replacing. I have the Arerktion front suspension which is also damaged and may need replacing. I am looking on the net to find measurments for the chassis so I can double check everything. Big job which ever way I look at it. I just hope there is no damage to the Hemi 6.1 engine or gearbox.

Cheers

John