Chevy Camaro Subframe - Sublime Subframe

In the interest of originality, most of the factory fasteners (when present) are re-used. The bolt threads are taped off and the bolt heads bead blasted to give them a raw, natural finish. Matte clear paint protects the bolt heads from the elements.

For restorers who want to go the extra detailing mile, this undercarriage inspection marking kit is available through AMC. It includes the various paints, brushes and stamps needed to duplicate the assembly line inspection marks that the factory used when checking torque figures and other specifications. Detailed instructions show which marks (and colors) go where. Here we see the spindle markings going on (these would have originally indicated that the spindle assemblies were complete and the ball joints torqued) and a yellow dab of paint being applied to the end of the lower ball joint.

Here's a completed tie rod assembly. The tie rod ends are painted cast-iron gray, and the sleeve is bare steel protected by matte clear paint. Note the yellow inspection slash, which shows that the sleeve has been properly torqued.

Tim begins the subframe assembly by installing the upper A-arms (which have been fitted with new bushings and ball joints). Don't forget the upper A-arm bumpers.

Next comes the lower A-arm, coil spring, and spindle. It's imperative to use a coil spring compressor here.

Moving right along, Ray installs the rebuilt steering box and Pitman arm. The box and arm are both painted cast-iron gray, but the aluminum cover and bead-blasted bolt heads are left with a natural finish.

The idler arm assembly and drag link are both painted cast-iron gray. The drag link also gets a few inspection marks.

The steering arms, backing plates, and caliper brackets come next. The steering arms get a cast-iron gray finish, while the backing plates are silver-cadmium plated and the caliper brackets are gold-cadmium plated.

Here we see Ray installing the left tie rod assembly. Note the inspection mark on the steering arm.

The brake rotors are machined and new bearings are installed, then the centers (the rough-cast portion) are sprayed with a high-temp, cast-iron gray finish.

After rebuilding this Camaro's original calipers, the AMC crew protects them using a semi-gloss black finish.

The brake line bracket is another piece that has been treated to gold-cadmium plating. The brake line is held in place with clips that have been bead-blasted and painted matte clear.

The finishing touch on this subframe is this heavy-duty sway bar (this one is not a factory piece, by the way) with standard rubber bushings. The frame bushing brackets are painted black, while the end link hardware should be left with a natural finish.

Sal Perez and Ray Hagar show off the result of their efforts-a like-new subframe that's ready to provide the foundation for an early Camaro. Special thanks also go out to Tim Warden for helping out with this project.