The GTM kit represents a sophisticated approach to building a high-performance vehicle, offering a meticulously curated collection of components designed for a seamless and rewarding assembly process. This detailed overview delves into each major section of the kit, providing insights into the engineering, materials, and intended functionality that make the GTM a standout choice for automotive enthusiasts.
Frame and Body Construction
At the heart of the GTM kit lies a computer-designed, ultra-rigid space frame, precision Mig-welded in jigs using laser-cut high-strength steel. This design prioritizes a low center of gravity and robust structural integrity, further enhanced by a durable gloss black powder-coat finish. Safety is paramount, with an integral 6-point roll cage, collapsible steering column, side impact bars, reinforced footbox, and front/rear crumple zones all integrated into the frame. The floor pans are steel with a flat, sheeted bottom for improved aerodynamics and safety.
The body panels are crafted from hand-laid, 3/16-inch laminate composite using vinylester resin and a black gel coat. These panels, including the hinged rear hatch, doors, and nose, are precisely trimmed by a 7-axis robotic trimming machine. The body incorporates the main cockpit and rear section, featuring DOT-approved glass windows. Specialized mounting plates are pre-welded onto the frame for easy bolt-on installation of the engine, transmission, pedal box, radiator, steering gear, suspension, and shifter linkages.
Chassis Aluminum Panels
Complementing the composite body, the GTM kit includes over 80 CNC-cut, pre-formed 6061 series aluminum panels. These meticulously crafted pieces form the cockpit, trunk, radiator surround, engine bay, and nose/splash guards. The kit also supplies more than 1,200 pre-packaged rivets in various sizes (1/8″ and 3/16″, short and long) along with an included rivnut tool for secure assembly. Specific aluminum assemblies include the nose section, radiator surround, cockpit and footbox components with block-off plates, diffuser strakes, rear bulkhead and access panels, engine bay assembly with splash guards, and under-carriage elements.
Suspension and Steering Systems
The GTM kit features a high-quality suspension system utilizing KONI shocks and coil-over kits, paired with Corvette upper and lower control arms for both front and rear. Adapter brackets and grade-8 mounting hardware are provided, along with rear axle shafts and an adapter kit. The steering system is a high-performance manual rack and pinion with a 15:1 ratio, complete with tie rod end kits, fasteners, and bushings. A comprehensive shift linkage kit is included, adaptable for either Porsche or Mendeola gearboxes, connecting the transmission to the shifter rod.
Fuel, Brake, and Pedal Box Integration
This section of the GTM kit is engineered for optimal control and safety. It features a Wilwood clutch and brake pedal assembly with triple master cylinders, along with brake lines and fittings. The kit facilitates the adaptation of Corvette fuel tanks and brakes to the GTM chassis, including stainless steel hoses, crush washers, banjo bolts, and aircraft-style fuel filler caps with dual-side fillers and neck hoses. Pre-flared fuel lines, adapters, and mounting brackets are provided, along with a braided stainless steel fuel tank cross-over hose and associated fittings. Fuel tank components, including hard lines and high-pressure hoses, are also part of the package.
Cooling and Engine Accessories
The cooling system components are designed to integrate a GM radiator, with all necessary mounting hardware, radiator hoses, and fasteners included. This includes various sizes of stainless steel hoses, insulated clamps, hose adaptors, and beaded aluminum tubing for radiator send and return lines. Miscellaneous engine accessories encompass a full exhaust system (excluding manifolds, with options for 1997-2000 or 2001-2004 engines), intake relocation assembly, engine and transmission mount components, air filter assembly, and exhaust tips.
Electrical Assembly and Interior
For the electrical system, the GTM kit provides components to adapt the Corvette computer (with free reprogramming services offered) and includes a full chassis wiring harness to simplify electrical work. Alternator relocation components, a GTM six-rib serpentine belt system, and a battery hold-down kit with ground strap and battery cables are also supplied. The kit features 16-gauge wire in various colors, relays, sockets, and looms.
The interior is comprehensively appointed with sport seats featuring side bolsters, carpeting, headliner, and roll cage covers. Covered interior panels, door panels, engine cover, rear bulkhead, and a dash assembly with a carbon fiber face are included. A complete custom Factory Five gauge set, including speedometer, tachometer, oil pressure, water temperature, and fuel gauges, is provided. Functional elements like adjustable dash cooling/heating vents, fog lights, hazard switches, and an interior rearview mirror are integrated. The kit also includes a titanium shift knob, a GTM-embossed steering wheel, and a rear interior window for cockpit separation.
Exterior Accessories and Lighting
The GTM kit enhances the vehicle’s striking exterior with high-end components. A carbon fiber rear diffuser is included for downforce generation. The lighting system features halogen headlights with separate high and low beams, fog lights, front turn signals, and dual rear stop/tail/turn lights. A rear license plate bracket and GTM badges add branding. Perforated screen mesh is provided for various cooling vents, including the radiator inlet/outlet, front and rear brake ducts, side intakes, and rear hatch cooling vents. DOT-approved tempered glass is used for the rear hatch and side windows. A windshield wiper assembly and twin flush-mount fuel caps complete the exterior accessories.
Fasteners and Assembly Manual
The GTM kit is supplied with over 1,500 top-quality fasteners, including zinc-plated, chrome, and stainless steel USS and SAE types, all individually numbered and packed by assembly for ease of identification. A comprehensive, bound assembly manual, exceeding 600 pages, guides builders through the entire process.
This detailed breakdown underscores the GTM kit’s commitment to providing a complete, high-quality package for constructing a performance-oriented vehicle, emphasizing meticulous engineering, premium materials, and a user-friendly assembly experience.