OK, while removing the rear end I took this traction bar off the drivers side. Are there measurements I can take to see if the body got twisted/bent, or if the mounts got damaged? It looks like they hit something pretty hard with it....

That must have been some speed bump! I would say that the traction bar probably didn't have enough strength or rigidity to transfer any of that force into the rear frame rails. The bushings would have absorbed all of it.

Q

I was hoping that is the case, just didn't know if there was any way to double check. It had to be one hell of a hit.....

prob. not that bad , just a weak aftermkt traction bar...think your body should be ok...

I thought this was a pregnancy post...my bad.

You look good..

The only harm I would see happening is breaking the axle perches, spring(s) or stretching the shock tower..

Looks like the Lakewood sacrificed itself for you.

Taps please. go bury them in the yard.

hehe I'm not pregnant, and she better not be either, she has lots of work to do on her car.

I was thinking of putting the bar back on, do you think it's still good? :p

I'm thinking of replacing the rear suspension with a Martz Chassis (http://www.martzchassis.net/page7.htm) any suggestions?

it could probably be straightened, but they're pretty cheap, and easy to come by. i gave a set away last year and still have a set in my garage.

plus if you change the rear suspension to coil spring, you wont need it.

here is another site with f-body coil kits:
http://www.hotrodstohell.net/truckarm/truckarm_index.htm
i dont know how it compares in price, but the install looks like it might be a bit easier, with the same basic result. (as long as you are'nt all out drag racing)


if you're still worried about bends, and want to do a bunch of measuring on your frame, the dimensions can be found at
http://1968firebird.org/
under 'service manual', 'body and frame mounts'
i think if the shock mount looks okay, and the front bracket looks ok, you're fine.

Replace them..You will feel better..

I do have a set of spares as well..They are Lakewoods w/spring snubs.

As soon as I get a buyer for the 12 bolt, you can have them.

I wouldnt straighten it...
IF you need a set ,get a set of new...I had a set , one was bent ,so I just got rid of them....my car is not in need of them ,not a dragster...only a 400...lol

Guys, I was just kidding about putting it back on!

Put it on backwards and hit the bump again at the same speed.



Q

By the way - in case you really want to check for a bent frame - the Service Manual Supplement I have for the '67 birds has front and rear frame measurement dimensions - including cross measurements.

This was really helpful for my welder as he transferred both my middle subframe mounts from my old subframe to my new one due to rust damage.