Converting S13 strutbrace to A61 (with pics!)

[mullett]

After a few rumours of S13 stuff fitting fairly easily into A61s, I picked up a secondhand SPATS strutbrace for the princely sum of $20...Before you rush off and grab one, make sure you get one with the adjustable ends, this one (which I assume came straight off an S13) was about 1cm too wide





The drama is that the holes are offset by ~30degrees...so bring out the grinder!

Cut the two uprights off at face level with the plates, being sure the cut straight and take the same amount off both sides (1mm disk is your friend!)


Bolt the plates down, bolt the mounting tabs to the brace itself, and position the whole lot in the bay


Tack weld the new plates in place (don't set your engine bay on fire!)...and don't ask me why this pic has gone stretchy!


Unbolt the brace bar so that it doesn't snap the tacks, take the plates off the car, being careful not to move anything, then weld it on properly, paint, and install!


Enjoy! And apologies for the crappy phone-pics

[CrUZida]

I'm surprised that clears the engine!

[mullett]

Yeah, it's actually perfect, about a fingers distance at the closest point. Not sure how close it is to the bonnet, but it doesn't rub/hit, so happy times