the present apparatus and method relates to improvements in stiffening elements within a vehicle body structure at a sub - frame attachment point . in a first embodiment of the improved apparatus and method , a long mounting pin is used in combination with a generally planar shear bulkhead . the pin fits partially into a channel within the shear bulkhead . the pin is welded , near its bottom , to a sub - frame mounting bracket . the long mounting pin extends to the upper part of the vehicle frame and is also welded thereto . the shear bulkhead abuts a generally middle section of the mounting pin and two additional welds are placed securing the mounting pin to the shear bulkhead .