1949-50 frame swap question...and more

[Barn Hunter]

I just looked at a potential package deal project. 49's or 50's or both? Anyway, there's a convert. that was hit drivers front missing front cap and running gear but decent body needing some floor/driver door repair. Comes with a bullet riddled parts car and another complete 4 door donor car with an 8BA. My main question is: Is the convert frame and 4 door frame the same or is the convert reinforced in some different way? Are wheelbases same? What I'm asking is are they interchangeable? Also, is the front sheet metal on the convert/4 door the same? I'm sure there will be more questions but these are a good start.

 

[TJ]

Convertible frame is different. It has extra bracing in the center. Wheel base is the same on all 49-51 cars. Front sheetmetal on all body styles is the same.

 

[toby]

The frames are different. See drawings:
Passenger car
Stationwagon
Convertible

 

[Barn Hunter]

Thanks for the diagrams. Being that the left front conv. frame is bent, what would be the best way to proceed...either have the frame straightened or use the 4 door frame and splice in the X member?

 

[Frank Miller]

It would help to see where the frame is bent. If you look closely at the two frames you will see more difference than the X member. There is also extra metal welded to the bottom of the side rails. It almost does not look like factory but it is. The forward section of either frame is the same so if you could splice that together and weld it I think it would be your best bet.
If you plan on restoring the convertible make sure you have all the roof parts and any other convertible specific parts.

 

[JT FORD]

Buy one already done and save thousands of dollars...........

 

[Jim NC]

Good Advice!!!

 

[19Fordy]

JT FORD is 150% correct - unless you are willing to struggle through an expensive restoration. You can buy a restored convertible for much less than you will spend on a restoration. The romance of doing a resto will fade away as your wallet gets emptier.
Remember the "penny wise, pound foolish' saying.

 

[Frank Miller]

Sorry, I missed the part of the question asking if the project was economically feasible?

 

[TJ]

Leave the bullet hole in the front fender and hood. They make for great conversation.

 

[Motorhead6]

The '51 Victoria (2 dr ht) frame is the same as conv. Maybe you can find one. I don't know what part of the country you are in, but I know where there are several in the Fl area. Doors and other parts are similar as well. For example, windshield, Qtr windows inside trim. Restoration of a conv would be both enjoyable and cost effective if you can do the work yourself.