109jb

Well, even though I don't have a big block mustang, I decided I didn't want to bash my knuckles every time I needed to work on the exhaust or change plugs on my 351W powered 70 mustang. So, I notched the shock towers. I cut it out as shown and fabricated and welded in 3/16" thick plate to fill the big hole. It cost me $14 for the steel plate and took about 3 hours to do. I still have to smooth out the welds, but that is about it. Now there is no problem accessing the plugs or exhaust. Below are a couple pictures to show how much room you gain.

sixt5

how much did you cut out? any pics from the wheel well? any other modifications needed?

109jb

There is no suspension modification necessary. Everything still has clearance to work as designed. The horizontal cut was made 2 inches above and parallel to the centerline of the upper control arm mounting bolts. That cut is 2 inches deep. The top of the cut was made right where the shock tower starts to curve down so that it wouldn't interfere with the top of the coil spring. I will mention that I incorporated the upper control arm drop and the cutouts I made wer in reference to that UCA mounting location. If you go to the factory holes, the horizontal cut will be 1 inch higher.

I made a plywood template that had wood stops so that the right and left would be even and also so that I could mark a nice line for the cut so the plate would fit flat. Unfortunately, I pitched the template otherwise I would get you a picture of it.

Once the lines were marked out I just used a combination of sawzall and cutoff wheel to cut out the piece of shock tower. Once removed I traced the shape I needed to cut the plate pieces to directly on the steel. I cut them out using my little metal cutting bandsaw, but you could use another method. Then it was just a matter of welding it in.

As far as picture from the wheel well, I don't have any right now, but can get some in the next day or two.

Mendezinc

I know this is a very old post, but I was wondering if you could post any additional photos of the notching project?
Also, how has the mod held up since, any issues you had to deal with?
What type of driving do you use the car for?

I’m planning on doing the same, I’m just looking for advice.


Much Thanks

Mendezinc

JimC

Unfortunately his last activity on this forum was in 2016 so not likely you will get a response from him. Maybe someone else who has done the notching will check in though.

Mendezinc

I hope he's ok, will do, and thank you.

Aweaver

I did the same thing on a 71 maverick back in the 80's put a 351c in it and ran the crap out of it . I never had any problems with it.