Nov 2005
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Avanti frames
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Avanti frame thicknesses and rail dimensions are considerably different than
a Hawk.  The original Avanti used the 62 Lark Convertible frame with the added 
X-member for stiffness.  This was a 12 gauge thickness on the upper channel 
and .090 rolled sheet steel on the flat underpanel.
The Avanti II's used the same frame as the original Avanti until mid 70's, 
when they started using standard V8 frames and added an X-member. Avanti II 
production in mid 80's under Altman, started using 6 cylinder Lark frames due 
to the depletion of V8 frames.  No numbers are known regarding the assignment 
of these frames, although the 84's are reported to be more involved.  The six 
cylinder frames, which were stored outside had to be sandblasted.  Some of them 
were pretty poor.
Later production was facilitated by creating a custom frame as orders came in.  These frames were standard sized to the V8 dimensions and were better quality