1954 Victoria welded chassis plates

[kiwi nz]

My 1954 Victoria has steel plates welded to the under side of the center section of both chassis rails.
Is this how they came from the factory?
Thanks

Geoff

 

[Brian54]

I have also wondered about this; apparently this was the way the 54 came from the factory as my Victoria is the same .

 

[dmsfrr]

Ford did something similar on early '56 T-Bird frames until mid model year when they went to thicker steel for the frame members.

 

[5851a]

I believe it is normal on Victoria's and convertibles. Don't think it was done to sedans.

 

[kiwi nz]

Thanks all for your confirmation, it is a relief to know that it is supposed to be that way. I thought that I had read that somewhere else. I have to get the car “complied” for NZ and I can guarantee that the inspector will decide if has had a rusty chassis repair.
Geoff

 

[darrell]

that strip was used on hardtops from 51 till 55.a few 56s still had it later 56 had a thicker frame.it was a way to reinforce the sedan frame for hardtops.