DF tubular subframe install, tech and reviews

SmsDetroit

Goblin Guru
Hi Folks,

I am trying to get the forward transmission mounting holes to line up on my F35 transmission. Any hints? I am considering loosening the motor mounts and the four subframe mounting bolts. Then using a tapered drift to assist. It has been a bit of a challenge lol to get those four bolts aligned. Thanks!

Vince
#415 2007 SS SC
Knoxville
I had the same issue. I just loosen the 3 upper trans bots until it lined up. Installed the lower bolts then tightened everything up
 

Markm

Well-Known Member
I have the f23 but I didn’t have a super difficult time getting everything lined up but I did have to get creative with a couple ratchet straps to get the rear subframe bolts to line up. I left the engine and trans mounts loose and attached the subframe to the front and rear engine/trans then installed the front bolts in the subframe than lined up the rear which were the most difficult but wasn’t too hateful.
 
What parts (kits) are needed (from ZZP or OTTP) to install the tubular subframe with the F40 6 Speed Transmission?

ZZP (currently on backorder)

OTTP

I already have the DF shifter kit, it comes with shift link cables.
https://store.dfkitcar.com/products/anodized-shifter-kit?_pos=1&_sid=2c8278f0f&_ss=r
 

Desert Sasqwatch

Bigfoot Goblin
Did you order the F40 option for your kit from DF? This is needed (or frame cutting and modifications) to fit the F40 into the chassis.

Edit: BTW, that engine and transmission mount kit from OTTP will only work in a Cobalt, the Goblin mounts do not use these.
 

comegetjoe

Goblin Guru
:D Popcorn anyone?

Besides @RobC76 and I, I don't know of any other (off the top of my head) F40 DF Subframe guys. Sqwatch built his own subframe.
 

Desert Sasqwatch

Bigfoot Goblin
Ken Liker had the first F40 frame, which was the 'experimental' chassis that DF used to develop the F40 mid (sold his car to someone a couple years ago). I'm aware that at least 2 other builders opted for the F40 mod too in the last 3ish years - don't recall who.
 

comegetjoe

Goblin Guru
Ken Liker had the first F40 frame, which was the 'experimental' chassis that DF used to develop the F40 mid (sold his car to someone a couple years ago). I'm aware that at least 2 other builders opted for the F40 mod too in the last 3ish years - don't recall who.
Not total F40 guys.
@Adam any total.F40 frame.mod figures?

Actually, thinking, am I the only one who has a proper F40 frame and a DF subframe kit? (Oh man, my signature 'bout to be lit! LoL)
 
Did you order the F40 option for your kit from DF? This is needed (or frame cutting and modifications) to fit the F40 into the chassis.

Edit: BTW, that engine and transmission mount kit from OTTP will only work in a Cobalt, the Goblin mounts do not use these.
Yes, I ordered the F40 option with my Goblin from DF. I had no clue it was such a "rare" option.
I am in the process of sending off my F40 off to Adam. DF said they would be interested in pursuing a Tubular Subframe for the F40 if I could supply them with what they needed to fab it up. Trying to make that happen but the ZZP "F40 6 Speed Conversion Kit" is on backorder... :(
If anyone has a ZZP F40 6 speed conversion kit laying around that they could sell me... let me know.

Also Adam also said that in the 6 years of building the kits they have had 9 orders for F40 optioned Goblins.
 
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comegetjoe

Goblin Guru
Yes, I ordered the F40 option with my Goblin from DF. I had no clue it was such a "rare" option.
I am in the process of sending off my F40 off to Adam. DF said they would be interested in pursuing a Tubular Subframe for the F40 if I could supply them with what they needed to fab it up. Trying to make that happen but the ZZP "F40 6 Speed Conversion Kit" is on backorder... :(
If anyone has a ZZP F40 6 speed conversion kit laying around that they could sell me... let me know.

Also Adam also said that in the 6 years of building the kits they have had 9 orders for F40 optioned Goblins.
Jealous. You're probably going to get the first completely bolt in tubular subframe for an F40.
We're are struggling to fab up our own mounts with bare subframes.
Did I say struggling? I meant working diligently, after... nah, I'll leave it alone lol
 
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Jealous. You're probably going to get the first completely bolt in tubular subframe for an F40.
We're are struggling to fab up our own mounts with bare subframes.
Did I say struggling? I meant working diligently, after... nah, I'll leave it alone lol
Only if I can find a ZZP F40 6 Speed Conversion Kit.. or at least the brackets...

Is there any chance that anyone knows the part numbers for the circled brackets in the image below? Thanks for your help in advance.
.
unnamed.png
T
 
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SmsDetroit

Goblin Guru
I just double checked the angle on my rear control arms. They sweep down at 1.5 deg. The axles is at 0.5 deg down. Should I lower the coil overs in their mounts to get it to level? Or is a little angle preferred
 
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Rttoys

Goblin Guru
I just double checked the angle on my rear control arms. They sweep down at 1.5 deg. The axles is at 0.5 deg down. Should I lower the coil overs in their mounts to get it to level? Or is a little angle preferred
I actually never messed with that adjustment from the old setup. Kind of forgot. I meant too, but saw a shiny object or something and squirreled. I just measured mine and it is a little over 1° chassis down. I’ll probably raise it to level, just because.
 
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