modified frame

A

Alan O'Connell

Well-known member
If I was thinking of modifying a late 30's Ford but wanted to keep the exterior looking original, who makes frames for that purpose?
Thanks in advance.
 
TCI makes a great chassis. So your thinking modified chassis, front end, rear end and motor and trans. Sure it can be done. I have done it to my '46 Woodie and I can't tell you how many people don't know its modified. Why not modify your original chassis?
 
Speedway Motors sells a 1935 - 1940 Ford streetrod chassis kit that might suit you .
Do a google search , you can probably find others .
 
Alan, tell us your plan and maybe you can use the existing frame with some modified parts from the various suppliers like Chassis Engineering
 
I would suggest picking up a Street Rodder magazine, there are a number of suppliers of early frames and frame parts.
 
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I have a stock 35 cabriolet. I want a 39 convertible coupe. I would like to keep the coupe completely original inside and out including the wheels but I would like to have a modern engine, drivetrain, brake system and steering. I've never done a modification before. I have always restored them to stock. So I'm just trying to get some info on this type of restoration. Strictly fact finding at this point.
 
If the existing frame is sound there are lots of bolt on products that will accomplish what you want to do. There are also many brand new frame options but they are probably going to add a lot of cost to the project. As noted, pickup a issue of Street Rodder magazine and check out some of the advertisers. Art Morrison, Chassis Engineering and Fatman Fabrications are just of few of the many that manufacture new frames and parts. There are many more that sell parts that can be used with the existing stock frame. I have a bolt in (no welding) independent front end under my truck with the stock frame and I love it. This gave me the good front brakes and good steering I wanted. I am also very happy that I kept the flathead power plant (with T5 transmission). Its always gets me home and it generates a lot of interest when ever I open the hood.
 
Alan, these are all good suggestions, both of my cars run stock frames with independent suspension and four bar with coil overs, great cruisers for very long trips, they look original except when you start them. The parts available now are not real expensive, custom frames are.
 
You'll be better off if you can find someone near you that's done this kind of work. I've done several over the past 30 ears and they all presented different challenges.
 
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