The first step in building my GT40 MKIV was to create a stable base. To do this, I built a welded frame that exactly matched the dimensions of my frame. The construction consists of rectangular tubes (80 x 160 x 3 mm) and had the following dimensions:

• Length: 2061 mm
• Width: 1045 mm
• Height: 600 mm

The dimensions of the welded frame are based on the layout of my tubular lattice frame. They not only provided stability, but also the optimum accessibility I needed for the welding work.

Precise alignment thanks to laser technology

To ensure that the frame was built correctly, I measured the lowest level of the frame tubes very precisely with a laser. This precision was crucial to avoid distortion stresses later on.

Fastening with a simple system

I used small angle irons to fix the frame tubes: 20 x 20 x 2 mm, cut into 20 mm long pieces. I attached these strategically to the welded frame and fixed the tubes to them with a few spot welds. The angle pieces held everything firmly in place while I built the frame step by step.

After completing the frame, I was able to simply bend the angle irons. This approach proved to be absolutely successful and meant that the frame was practically free of distortion and tension.

My conclusion

An accurate, distortion-free and stable welding frame is a crucial aid during preparation. Of course, a proper welding table would have been even better, but unfortunately it is also very expensive in this size. But even so, I was able to work with the necessary stability and precision to assemble the frame cleanly and without compromise.