How To Build Altered Wheelbase Cars: Unleashing the Power of Customization

Picture this: you're cruising down the street, the engine roaring beneath the hood, and heads are turning as your altered wheelbase car rolls by. It's a sight to behold, an automotive masterpiece that exudes power, style, and a touch of rebellion.

But how does one go about building an altered wheelbase car? What technicalities are involved? And where does the magic of customization truly come to life? Well, buckle up, because we're about to embark on a thrilling journey through the art of building altered wheelbase cars.

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty details, let's first understand what an altered wheelbase car is. As the name suggests, it refers to a vehicle where the distance between the front and rear axles has been modified. This customization alters the car's weight distribution, resulting in improved traction, better launching capabilities, and enhanced performance on the drag strip.

How to Build Altered Wheelbase Cars

by Steve Magnante (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	112549 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	144 pages

FREE

Now, let's explore the step-by-step process of building your very own altered wheelbase car. Remember, this endeavor requires patience, attention to detail, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of automotive design.

Step 1: Choose your Base Car The foundation of any altered wheelbase car project is the base vehicle. Look for a classic muscle car with a strong frame and ample modification potential. Popular choices include the Chevrolet Camaro, Ford Mustang, or Dodge Charger. Don't forget to consider factors such as the availability of spare parts and their compatibility with the alterations you have in mind.

Step 2: Determine the Desired Wheelbase Alteration Decide how much you want to alter the wheelbase of your car. Bear in mind that the alteration should be significant enough to make a noticeable difference without compromising structural integrity. Consult with experienced builders or experts in the field to learn about the optimal wheelbase alteration for your desired performance goals.

Step 3: Obtain the Necessary Tools and Equipment Building an altered wheelbase car requires a range of tools and equipment. Some essential items include welding equipment, bodywork tools, a reliable hydraulic jack, and a comprehensive set of mechanical tools. Ensure you have everything at hand before proceeding further.

Step 4: Strip Down and Reinforce the Chassis To accommodate the alteration, you will need to strip down the vehicle's interior and any unnecessary components. This will give you access to the chassis, which you must reinforce to handle the new wheelbase configuration. Weld additional support structures, such as subframe connectors, to ensure the chassis can handle the increased stress.

Step 5: Modify the Suspension Once the chassis is reinforced, it's time to modify the suspension. The altered wheelbase will affect the suspension geometry, so you'll need to install appropriate components to maintain proper alignment, handling, and ride comfort. Consult with suspension experts for guidance on selecting the right components for your specific alteration.

Step 6: Extend or Shorten Driveshaft and Axles To accommodate the new wheelbase, you may need to extend or shorten your car's driveshaft and axles. This step requires precision and accuracy, as any miscalculations can lead to drivability issues. Seek assistance from professionals or experienced builders to ensure this crucial aspect of the alteration is executed flawlessly.

Step 7: Modify the Bodywork With the underpinnings in place, it's time to turn your attention to the bodywork. Altered wheelbase cars often feature custom modifications to enhance their aesthetic appeal and aerodynamics. This can include reshaping fenders, installing custom body kits, and designing a unique paint scheme. Get creative and let your imagination run wild while ensuring functionality and structural integrity aren't compromised.

Step 8: Install the Powertrain and Fine-Tune Performance A powerful engine is the heart of any altered wheelbase car. Choose a high-performance powertrain that matches your desired performance goals. Carefully install the engine, transmission, and other drivetrain components, ensuring they're properly aligned and securely mounted. Once installed, fine-tune the engine's performance through careful tuning and adjustment. This step can make a significant difference in the car's power delivery, responsiveness, and overall performance.

Step 9: Test, Refine, and Enjoy the Ride Congratulations! Your altered wheelbase car is now complete. However, before hitting the road or racetrack, make sure to test the vehicle thoroughly under safe conditions. Take note of any issues or areas that require refinement, such as suspension tuning or drivetrain adjustments, and address them accordingly. Once everything is dialed in, it's time to unleash the full potential of your creation and enjoy the thrilling ride you've brought to life.

In , building an altered wheelbase car is an exhilarating journey that combines technical know-how, artistic expression, and a passion for automotive customization. From choosing the right base car to fine-tuning the performance, every step of the process is an opportunity to push the boundaries and create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece. Embrace the challenge, fuel your imagination, and get ready to build a vehicle that not only turns heads but also delivers an unparalleled performance on the road.

How to Build Altered Wheelbase Cars

by Steve Magnante (Kindle Edition)

4.8 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	112549 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	144 pages

FREE

The photos in this edition are black and white.

One of the most distinctive and interesting eras in hot rodding was the early '60s, when Gasser-class and altered wheelbase machines were changing the definition of what a hot rod was. Eventually, the altered wheelbase machines gave rise to the Funny Car, but before they did, they left a permanent mark on the history of drag racing.

In How to Build Altered Wheelbase Cars, renowned writer Steve Magnante first walks readers through the colorful history of the altered wheelbase period and then shows them how to perform these radical modifications themselves. Magnante's fun and colorful style makes for entertaining reading, and the coverage of floorpan mods, chassis alterations, and both front and rear suspension upgrades are covered in great detail on three different chassis types. After reading this book, the basic technical tenets of altering vehicle wheelbase will be understood and the almost mythical legend surrounding such cars will be fully realized. What were once considered race only modifications can now be civilized for street use, and Magnante carefully reviews all of the relevant points for optimal appearance, performance, and safety.

The techniques and processes detailed between the covers of How to Build Altered Wheelbase Cars have been proven on Magnante's own personal vehicles, and after his many street miles and drag strip passes, readers can rely on Steve's advice. With plenty of historical images for reference and clear step-by-step how-to photos, you can build your own altered-wheelbase car for fun on the street or the strip.