Share your impressions after Engman install, Inner long kit !! Options

[drive-ability]

I was hoping to get some opinions on the Engman inner long kit. We know its designed to stiffen up the center section but how does the car feel after the install. Can you feel a difference in the chassis? Sometimes I think its hard to measure a difference or judge performance because theres a built in bias when you buy and install something like this..

[Engman]

When welding, don't weld the entire length on the edges which is what I believe to be the biggest error made. This just invites shrinkage and more is not better here. Just weld the holes and tack weld the edges.

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/agree.gif) I've never had a shrinking problem with just filling the holes. One kit that I know shrank the door gaps, and that person seam welded the edges the full length. I firmly DON'T believe that a full seam at the edge is necessary. A few more tack welds are fine.

I also ground a drill flat to clean off the paint through every hole for a good weld.

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/agree.gif) I started doing this on my second kit install. It works great.

I made sure when I started welding a hole the wire was in the center of the hole but instead of it welding onto the long it just pretty much just filled the holes.

(IMG:style_emoticons/default/agree.gif) filling holes can end up not attaching to the base metal. You need to be very careful that you're not just welding the holes shut.

Like Paul mentioned, the strength of the kit comes from the long and the new metal being in complete contact. The closer you can get them, the better. I typically remove/install the side pieces 20 or so times cutting a little here, and grinding a little there. No two cars are the same, and you shouldn't be afraid to modify the pieces to work in your car. Especially the bottom edge. If that is too long it won't allow the top section to lie flat. IMHO, there should be a 1/4" gap along the bottom edge to make sure you top is not raised.

McMark is on target with his comments.

I would also like to thank him for input he gave me after installing a kit 2 years ago. His comments were implemented into the parts (shrink sides to allow better welding and adding the seat belt mount hole for the 70 model on the passenger side - its different than the later models). I always listen to try to improve anything I make and his comments have made the kit better.

As to the weight - the kit is actaully 16.5 lbs - shipping weight is 18lbs.

Thanks

M