Abstract: Described is a process for producing bicyclic compounds having the generic structure: ##STR1## wherein R.sub.1 is one of the moieties: ##STR2## and wherein R.sub.2, R.sub.3 and R.sub.4 are the same or different and each represents hydrogen, methyl or ethyl comprising the step of reacting a tricyclic compound having the structure: ##STR3## with a benzene derivative having the structure: ##STR4## according to the reaction: ##STR5## in the presence of an aluminum chloride catalyst.