Board logo

Swap Chassis
Abarth - 20/4/25 at 06:38 PM

Hi all

I buyed a Robin Hood Sub K 10 years ago, and it was total dismantled to upgrade the front suspension system. But this chassis seems to me very heavy and dificult to fit the side panels nicely, because it's made wih round tube...
I'm thinking replace the chassis with another one that can swap all the stuff from RH.... what option would be the best?

Best regards

David

Sarah - 20/4/25 at 09:56 PM

If it was registered in the UK, it will need a new IVA test and re-registering if you replace the chassis.

I'm guessing the suspension is the sliding pillar and was done to a budget so you'll be better off fabricating something from scratch or buying something like this https://kitspares.co.uk/products/copy-of-robin-hood-2b-double-wishbone-handling-pack (which I think is quite expensive)

MikeR - 20/4/25 at 10:49 PM

I don't think its that bad a price when you consider it includes 2 shock absorbers and springs (although i've no idea of the make/ quality of the shock absorbers).

Mr Whippy - 21/4/25 at 09:48 AM

If you list the running gear or even better take a picture of it, that would help identify what suitable chassis would be the least effort. If it's the one I'm thinking off then it's basically a Sierra based car and there are quite a lot of good options for those mechanics. It would basically be an IRS rear end, you'd ditch the Sierra rear subframe & trailing arms just using the hubs and diff. Your car may already have a wishbone front end? Many Locost home builds were done this way after people moved away from the escort base, you should be able to pick up a second hand chassis but inspect the welds. I don't know how registrations and chassis swaps work where you live but you are changing quite a lot of the car and I'd not be surprised if they question the identity. A lot to look into.

Abarth - 21/4/25 at 06:32 PM

quote:
Originally posted by Sarah
If it was registered in the UK, it will need a new IVA test and re-registering if you replace the chassis.

I'm guessing the suspension is the sliding pillar and was done to a budget so you'll be better off fabricating something from scratch or buying something like this https://kitspares.co.uk/products/copy-of-robin-hood-2b-double-wishbone-handling-pack (which I think is quite expensive)


Hi Sarah

I did this conversion but this chassis compared to my Indy o Westfield narrow is the heaviest opción. And the entire rear subframe of the Sierra doesn't help. I'm searching for a frame with IRS sierra differential and fit the RH parts as much as possible.

Regards

Mr Whippy - 21/4/25 at 08:04 PM

I would suggest using an old MK chassis as that should be able to reuse your existing running gear. Still pretty much building a new car though, not really a chassis swap. Depends on how honest you want to be with the authorities.