10 replies to this topic

[Exmantaa]

From what year was the reinforced VXT subframe introduced? And what build # NA's have this fitted too?

Is it visible where it's strengthened, or exact same design manufactured with thicker steel? 

(My old NA frame is cracked & welded, so it's time to look for something better...)

[fezzasus]

I honestly didn't know there were different subframes, I will be watching this with interest. I guess the obvious question is how much the Europa subframe differs from the VX220 one.

[Crabash]

I noticed my subframe was different to the NA, the downward pointing legs at the back have a gusset left in on mine where the NA was cut tighter into the corners. It was seeing this that stopped me from reinforcing it as I susspected cracked subframes were the ones without the gusset, mine showed no signs of stress.

Edited by Crabash, 08 May 2014 - 10:35 AM.

[Exmantaa]

Any pics of this somewhere?

That sounds as the affected area which cracks...

 

(What build # is your NA VX? And Europa subframe is a good one.  )

Edited by Exmantaa, 08 May 2014 - 10:48 AM.

[Crabash]

 

Might be some more useful pics in my build album.

 

http://s738.photobuc...ary/VAX Project

Edited by Crabash, 08 May 2014 - 10:59 AM.

[Duncan VXR]

From the few N/A's I have spent time with it's as Steve states and the only real difference I could see. Wishbones on turbo (other than brace bar position) have extra bracing on the outer sides.

 

If your really familiar with the N/A then the pics Steve has of the refurb I did on his will highlight them

 

DG

[vocky]

my 2003 NA is one of the last (build 4630) and has the earlier subframe 

Edited by vocky, 08 May 2014 - 11:49 AM.

[christhegasman]

Was this just strengthened to take the massive weight of the turdo engine 😃 ?

[Crabash]

I seem to remember, us checking something else out on the NA for guidance with the rebuild of mine, heads under car, look up, "hang on that's different". Not something I had ever heard referred to prior to that afternoon.

[Exmantaa]

I see it now. The backplate from the turrets ais angled towards the crosbeam, while the older NA version goes straight up with only a small section angled 45° to the crossbeam.

 

But heard that the later ones are some 2-3kg heavier and for sure that is not only from those 2 extra sections of backplate??

[Crabash]

Never thought to weight it at the time. But no way the extra bits would weight that much, so either it's not true or there are significant differences elsewhere, which I couldn't see. Possible they used a thicker steel sheet for that back section too I suppose.