Removing Model A Body From Frame

Bob Grieb

Bob Grieb

Senior Member
I am thinking of removing the body of my 1930 pickup from the frame for the purpose of painting it and trying to remove some of the rattles. Is there documentation available that outlines a procedure for accomplishing this task?

Thanks for your help.

Bob
 
I think there was a written procedure in an old issue of Model A Times. Contact John LaVoy through this forum's contacts to be sure.
 
not that difficult look it over and see what it will take to get the job done, a little
common since and perseverance and you can accomplish anything you put your mind to
Tinkirk

of Couse some of the right tools can help out also
 
Thanks Mike for your response. I sent a PM to John LaVoy.

I think most anyone can get the body off of the frame but one can always benefit from shared experience.

Bob
 
Bottom line in most all situations like this is; If it's in your way, move it. Applies to starter, steering column, dash and under tank wiring, choke rod, rear fenders and bed.
 
As you remove the bolts and nuts be sure to put them in baggies and mark the position where they were removed. It will save you a lot of time when you re-assemble. Also note the needed broken and worn out fasteners so it will be much easier to find the correct sizes. Re-use the original bolts and nuts when possible. The reproductions are some times OK but many are the wrong length and other problems. Norm
 
Also take note of all wood blocks, where they come from and which way. Some are easily mistaken for others.
When the body is off, it is a really great time to check the frame for straightness and also it is really easy to get to your brake system and work on any loose bushings.

There seems to be more art than science to getting the body back on so the doors and hood line up correctly, read up on this before you take off the body and it will make aligning it easier later.
 
Marshall57

Thanks for your response. Can you tell me where I might find the information regarding alignment so that I might read up on it? I have not started the process as I wanted to read about it but so far I have drawn a blank when trying to find documentation.

Bob
 
Thanks for all the input/help. I never was able to locate an outline or plan but I am sure if incorporate these suggestions and use a little common sense this will go fine.

Bob
 
I lifted the body by myself using jacks and adjustable saw horses. Little by little using a floor jack and pieces of 2x4 lumber, I inched the body just high enough to roll the chassis away. As I moved the chassis away, I put one saw horse across the back of the body, and then two more at the cowl. I made the body just high enough to store the rolling chassis under it. The saw horses are steel with adjustable leg lengths that I bought from Home Depot.

Not bad for a 70 year old guy who had cancer at the time.
 

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