Challenger Frame Measurement Accuracy

[rhamson]

I have been plugging along with the body work on my '72 Challenger and thought at one time I had adjusted the right front rail back to its' proper height. Which I did successfully. I have discovered that the rail was pushed up by the floor and is out of level about a 1/2". I set up my trammel jig to measure it at the proper points according to the chassis diagram in the chassis service manual. The measurement diagonally from the cross member to the back bolt hole where the K-frame attaches to the frame measures 57-1/8". It is equal on both sides. The measurement should be 57-1/2". Does anybody know if these dimensions were that accurate from the factory? I still need to make a pull on the frame at the floor to bring it back down to level out the frame from one side to the other. I have tried to get a body shop locally to bend this but they all bow out as they are dedicated to only collision repairs of newer cars. Classic line I have been given is it a unibody? We don't do unibody pulls for old cars. Just about every newer car out there they are repairing is a unibody. Any thoughts? Anyone?

[jimynick]

The old tolerance for frame repairs used to be 1/8" and the spec measurements were usually pretty close. Try coming at it from the other end and see if it's 3/8th too long. A tram can be your friend, but make sure it's got hte correct ends so that it registers properly. The fact that your measurements are equal is encouraging. I can't help but wonder if you hook it right and pull together (both sides) to eliminate your stated 1/2" height issue, if you'won't also resolve your length issue. I'd look around and try to find either an old school bodyman or a smart young one with a decent frame rack. Many of today's frame repair systems use a built in measuring system and that can work to your advantage with the right guy on the pedal. Good hunting!