4 Signs It's Time to Replace a Classic Car's Chassis
A chassis is the basic building block of a vehicle. While it may seem like it’s “only” a metal frame (which is true), that frame carries and holds together the entirety of a car. However, that also means your car’s chassis has a lot on its shoulders.
After a while, replacing your vintage ride’s chassis will become a must, which begs the question: How do you know it is time to take your car to Orange County, CA subframe and chassis swap shop for an upgrade? Let’s find out!
What are the common signs that a vehicle chassis needs repair or replacement?
The chassis on a classic car is incredibly sturdy. Even so, they aren’t made to last forever. Furthermore, they endure a lot over their lifetime. Which not only speeds up the wear and tear but also jeopardizes the integrity of other crucial components such as the subframe or drivetrain. Fortunately, when the time comes to replace a chassis, your car will “tell” you that.
Look for the signs of wear and tear
Sometimes, it doesn’t take an expert to see that a chassis needs replacement. A thorough visual inspection can be quite enough. So, look for the usual signs of wear and tear, such as bent frame portions or rust. It is a telltale sign that your car’s chassis is in dire need of a TLC.
Strange noises
Now, this is not exclusive to chassis only. Deterioration can cause many car parts to produce strange sounds. For instance, clunking from under the hood can be a sign of damaged subframe bushings or pistons or a whole bunch of other things. If your car starts making funny noise it is imperative to take it to a mechanic ASAP to avoid further damage.
Poor steering
Imagine driving down the El Toro Y, trying to turn, only to find your car defying your command, as if it has a mind of its own. It would be terrifying, especially on such a busy route. Nevertheless, it can happen.
If your subframe is damaged, you’ll find it hard to steer your car exactly in the right direction. Again, if you notice difficulties handling and steering bring your car to a car shop right away to ensure your safety and that of your fellow drivers.
Uneven wear on tires, shocks, and suspensions
A bent frame can cause some parts of the car to endure more pressure than others. The most visible ones would be tires that can wear unevenly on one side while remaining intact on the opposite one. The same goes for shocks and suspensions whose purpose is to absorb and dampen the pressure of impacts and car weight.
Can you repair a chassis or is replacement the only option?
Yes, it’s possible to repair classic car chassis, depending on the extent of damage and the skill of the crew doing the repair. However, you must take into consideration the fact that your classic car is old. As such, repairing the chassis is only delaying the inevitable.
Therefore, the best and safest option is to replace it altogether, which is not as bad as it seems. With today’s technology, a new chassis will be a significant upgrade over the old one. The one that will last you a lifetime.
Which Orange County, CA subframe and chassis swap is the best?
If you’re looking for premium-quality classic car care, you need not look further than Chimera Motors. Our crew has years of experience repairing and replacing vintage rides’ subframes and chassis, through the use of contemporary methods, tools, and materials. Give us a call today and give your ride an upgrade that will take it to the future.
