Here are some pics of the tubular k-member prototype that is almost done ... Thoughts and input welcome!! :beerchug:
Put me first on the list! How much weight savings approximately and what is a ballpark price? I need to do some aluminum motor mounts anyways so why not.
And yes...is plays a role in frame support also. It is the cradle for the engine that ALSO connects the left and right lower font frame members. In most cars the stock K-member wieghs a ton because of how it is made.... it does have to take the power, torque and weight of the engine. It is usually (but not in all cars) mounted right between the wheels and front suspension...to also help support and distribute the lateral stresses on the frame. The tubular designs are lighter, stiffer, and most important... stronger. In regards to the stock K-member...... Because they have the lower engine block mounts, they are interchangable parts for different engine blocks in a certain series (like any LX). At least I am pretty sure.... In other words.... to go from a 6-cylinder to a Hemi you would also have to change the k-member. For example...in the '60s Dodge engines.. 273, 340, and 360 (small block) had a differnt K member than the 383 and 440 (big block) engines in each car series. The HEMI had its own K-member. Some of the rare k-members (like a HEMI K-member for the '67-'69 muscle cars) get very good prices from early muscle car bulders or restorers. ..
*** Update *** We plan to have the k-member without the sway bar mounts ready for production in the next 7-10 days, so if you want one without the sway bar mounts, please post here so I can get a count of how many will be in the first batch. After we get this version into production, the guys can resume development to add the sway bar mounts and we'll release that version TBD. For anyone wanting to have the tubular k-member w/o the sway bar mounts in time for ATCO, we will be able to deliver to you in time to have it installed. Also, for those running at ATCO, I'll be personally offering a discount on this as a Speedlogix sponsored car, so I'll provide details on that once pricing is out as well. I know pricing is the next question and REM is working on that as they wrap up the production design, and as soon as we know I'll post here. It's going to be very reasonable and in line with what high-end tubular k-members sell for in other applications.
We're getting somewhere ... just got an update from REM who is building these for us ... 20 lb lighter than stock!!
