Truck v/s passenger frames

R

rlhinit

Member
Here's a question - how much of a difference is there between truck frame ( '47 pick-up) and a car frame ( '39 ) ? I'm thinking of building a '47 pick-up and I have a very good '39 frame available for which I'd install a pick-up body on . What are your thoughts ?
 
It can certainly be done, but if your thought is to save money because you have that frame, consider the conversions of drive train and suspension.
 
1. 1947: 114" wb vs 1935-40 (41PU&SD) 112".
2. 1947: 3" wider track width vs 1935-40.
3. Parallel leaf springs on 1947 vs transverse 1935-40.
4. "ladder" frame on 1947 vs shaped frame with x member on 1935-40.


Using the 1939 frame, mounting the pickup body, and converting to 1940-41 front sheetmetal (or fiberglass... hint, hint) and grill is very reasonable (the 47 bed will need to be narrowed 3"). Trying to use the 47 sheetmetal on a 39 frame will be a nightmare, as would trying to use the 40-41 sheetmetal on a 1947 frame.
 
More or less what Karl said. The 39 frame would be a good candidate as a replacement for a 40/41 pickup but not for the 42-47.

Mart.
 
rlhinit said:
Here's a question - how much of a difference is there between truck frame ( '47 pick-up) and a car frame ( '39 ) ? I'm thinking of building a '47 pick-up and I have a very good '39 frame available for which I'd install a pick-up body on . What are your thoughts ?
Click to expand...
Get the paperwork straight first. The DMV may want to register you truck by the year the frame was made.

Charlie Stephens
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top