1930 coupe Body adjusting

[ifightfire]

I've just set my body on the frame and also have all the other sheet metal bolted together. Now I need to start shimming and adjusting the hood and body to fit properly. Where should I start? Any pointers would be helpful

[Tinbasher]

The first step is to make sure that the frame is square and level. A cross measurement of the frame and then use a long straightedge on top of the frame rails. If this is good then you can put the body and blocks on.
You'll need to install the rad and shroud and the hood.
This will give you and idea of how things are fitting.
The "0" point of all frames is the cowl front bolt area. You work ahead and back from this point to get alignment.
So, start at the cowl and then work you way back or ahead to get the hood to fit to the cowl and then go to your door fit.
Hope this helps.
JP

[ifightfire]

I have the radiator and shroud all attached. the hood on and working to adjust the front of the body height so that the hood fits good. the problem I'm having is I have to raise the body up more than half an inch to get the hood to fit correctly what is the max i can raise the front of the body. what gap is ok to have between the body and the frame?

[CarlLaFong]

Make sure the frame isn't sagging

[Tinbasher]

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3 1/8" shim is the max we where told when being trained for the Auto Body trade.
Get a straight edge on the top of the frame rail and see what you've got.
Also have you got an original rad. and rad shroud. The measurements and locating brackets can be off on the aftermarket ones or ones that have been re-cored.