Mini-tubbing dates back to 1960s-era drag racing. The act of widening a car’s rear wheelwells (mini-tubbing) still remains a popular option these days, but often for entirely different reasons. Because mini-tubbing allows a vehicle to accommodate wider wheel and tire packages, it can improve a car’s handling capability by allowing a much larger tire contact patch.
That makes it perfect for today’s street machines and Pro Touring rides.
Mini-tubbing a car can be a very involved process, though. For example, some applications may require you to relocate leaf springs or alter shock mounts to make room for wheel tubs. Fortunately, companies like Detroit Speed have managed to simplify things by creating custom mini-tubs for certain applications. Detroit Speed’s mini-tubs are designed to provide a perfect fit on muscle car-era vehicles like first and second generation GM F-bodies, first-generation Mustangs, and 1968-74 GM X-bodies. The tubs themselves are made from 18-gauge steel and can deliver up to three inches of additional tire clearance.
Detroit Speed says its custom mini-tubs can shave a number of hours off a typical mini-tub project, and the company also offers complete mini-tub kits. These kits come with everything needed to complete the job, including things like shock mounts, offset shackles, rear leaf springs, lower shock plates, rear upper shock crossmember, and more.
If you’ve ever considered mini-tubbing your vehicle, this video from Detroit Speed will give you a pretty good idea of what’s involved in the process.
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