Rear Suspension Reinforcement Options

[kdfoust]

This spring I'm wrapping up completely rebuilding my suspension. Right now I'm working on the rear end.

First off, what do ya'll think about the weld on trailing arm reinforcing plates (like PP and a number of other places sell for ~$100). The reinforcing plates seem like a reasonable thing to do, right? All these kits look like the same stuff to me. Is there a mo-better way to do the job, allowing that I can fabricate anything I need?

Secondly, I'd like to go ahead and reinforce the suspension consoles while I'm at it. The problem I've got is that I've never had a good look at the underside of a teener (laying on my back on my creeper in the garage doesn't count). I've looked at the PCA GGR picture for the reinforcment setup. Is the GGR setup state of the art OR is something else the hot ticket? Any recommendations for SoCal shops to do this for me - ones you've used in LA/Orange/San Diego county area?

Have fun,
Kevin

[brant]

Mike,

perfect... timing wise...
and great shots...
so what is the group consensus...
Mike, I think you could cut out, or cut back to good metal and then weld in a patch... or piece of the silver car....

it depends upon how far you would have to cut back.
but in an ideal world, you may not have to remove the entire floor pan (as Jeroen did)... if you don't mind it being less than concours.......

Using heavier than stock gauge metal... you should be able to make a patch that would restore the original strength...

yep.. I agree that the motor would need to come out.. but with that fancy lift of yours... and the chassis supported correctly.... it should be doable...

what's the group consensus...
and how do we talk mike into firing up that fancy new welder he bought and jumping in with both feet...

brant