I thought I would attach some details of the crossmember frame notch that I did on a 1980 G-Body Monte Carlo frame clip that I am installing on my 1955 Chevy Truck. I am using a 5.3 LS motor with 2001 Camaro oil pan setup and stock exhaust manifolds. I decided that I wanted to be able to install the engine and transmission together, so I notched the crossmember and welded in 1/4" plate to box it in. Other guys have done this, I just couldn't find a lot of detail on it. I didn't want to notch my oil pan since I am not experienced at aluminum welding, so I did the crossmember. I didn't have any problems installing the engine/tranny combo together. The 1-1/2" deep notch worked great. I notched it to have 10" width of clearance.

 

I thought I would also attach some more pics of the clearances using the stock manifolds. I am using a 700-R4 transmission with the 6.0 flexplate attached to the 5.3. I had to elongate the holes for the converter to bolt up about 3/16". I am using a 1978 Camaro crossmember for the transmission mount, and it slides perfectly into the stock C-channel 1955 truck frame.

 

Looks good. Im doing a 59 GMC with a 70's Nova/ Camaro clip on it now. Went with the stock truck pan on mine, hopefully Ill get some more time to work on it soon so I can actually drive the thing!

 

You will have to get some pics up to so we can see the progress! I have been working on mine about a year, still a ways to go. Are you going carb or fuel injection? I figure I will get mine going with carb setup, and then maybe convert back to fuel injection if I can collect everything I need. I know the fuel pump setup and wiring details will take awhile, so that coupled with the fact that I got my 5.3 without the intake is why I am going carbed. I have the MSD 6011 box and Edelbrock intake. Good luck! Ed

 

Mine is injected since thats what I do for a living....I've had the truck a couple of months but barely get time to mess with my own stuff. Couple pics I have on here as I was lowering it...