Page P-1 — Chassis Features – All Series — Frames – First Generation Firebird (1967, 1968, 1969)

An enhanced reproduction of the original Pontiac Sales Manual used in 1968 showrooms which described all the equipment that was available on the Firebird. This album has become a rare and valuable resource.

1968 Pontiac Sales Manual

CHASSIS FEATURES – ALL SERIES

FRAMES

Firebird. All Firebird models feature a unique stub-frame front structure, separate rear chassis section and integral body-frame construction. The partial front frame supports the engine, transmission, front suspension components, brake and steering gear assemblies. The rear section consists of rear supension, rear axle and differential.

The body is attached to the partial front frame through four rubber-isolated mounts, which contribute to the improved isolation of the power plant and front suspension form the body proper. Engine vibration is further isolated on floor-mounted shift units by attaching the shift lever to a partial rear frame crossmember rather than to the transmission extension housing.

Tempest, Tempest Custom, Le Mans, Tempest Safari, GTO. An all-new frame of sweft-hip-perimeter design contributes to the distinctive long hood, short rear-end styling common to these cars in 1968. A comparison of this new frame with its 1967 counterpart shows that the frame front rails now extend approximately 4 inches farther beyond the centerline of the front wheels and the frame rear rails are 6″ shorter from frame to rear axle.

Soft, durable rubber mounts between body and frame prevent metal-to-metal contact and substantially reduce engine, transmission and driveline noises. A front crossmember supports engine and front suspension, while a second crossmember adds rear-end structural rigidity and provides direct attachment for the rear bumper. An additional “bolt-on”crossmember provides support for the engine-transmission assembly.

Catalina, Executive, Bonneville, Grand Prix Frame

Catalina, Executive, Bonneville, Grand Prix. Pontiac’s swept-hip-perimeter frame is continued for 1968. This frame is specially designed to distribute stresses and strains more evenly to provide maximum body-to-frame strength with important savings in excess weight. Its design also permits a lower sill and flat floor for added convenience of entry and exit. Structural modifications in the 1968 frame for Executive and Bonneville reduce vehicle

sensitivity to tire-induced disturbance and thus contribute to a quieter, smoother ride.

The frame is reinforced by 4 welded-in crossmembers and a fifth “bolted-on” member which supports the engine-transmission assembly. All mounting points between body and frame are cushioned by soft, durable rubber to enhance ride quality and comfort.