How much Flex should I expect?

[mr. fix it]

Hi guys,
I am about to embark on the couragous journey of repairing the rust damage to my 66 Polara properly.

I have cautiously jacked the car up a few times in the past from the front stub frame and the rear differential housing to place on jack stands.
I have noted that there is a small amount of flex in the body at the rear of the top of the door seams and want to know what amount of flex can be considered normal.
I see with mine there is amount 1/8" to 3/16" gap increase when I have the jack stands under the rear axle and jack stands under the rear Stub Frame mounts(under the firewall) area.

Have a look at what I have found to date..

I love when bondo & fiberglass mesh are used for structural repairs..

Caution, it is not for the faint of heart...:icon_pale: :icon_pale: :icon_pale:

 

[mr. fix it]

Here are some shots of the trunk area plus one ofthe other side inside passenger area

 

[67Monaco]

There's always some flex for me when I raise or lower the car. the amounts you're stating seem about Boal for me.

 

[Big_John]

There will always be some flex when you jack it up.

If you want to minimize the flex (or bend) when you jack it up, put jack stand under the rear axle (as you have done) and support the front under the lower control arms. Try to get it level. That will simulate the car sitting on its wheels as best as possible so you can do your repairs.

 

[mr. fix it]

Thanks guys, I figured as much but needed confirmation

I lifted the car like you suggested and it stayed perfectly straight.
:sSig_thanks:

 

[Six7-300]

Talk about flex, mine is a 67 300 convertible, which has less support without a fixed roof. The first time I jacked up the car, I almost had a heart attack. Fortunately, it flexed back into place when the car was lowered.

 

[mr. fix it]

Same thing here Six7-300 same here...:cry:

 

[Six7-300]

Love Mr. Fix it's car!

 

[mr. fix it]

Love Mr. Fix it's car!

Thanks for the compliment!