52-59 Ford Owners Group FAQ's

Here is a link I thought I had posted as there is so much confusion over Ford water pumps and pulleys this will set things straight: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=303600&highlight=ford+short+water+pump

JeffB2, Jun 30, 2012

 

Restoring a steering wheel from the main board :http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=675133

JeffB2, Jul 16, 2012

 

I contacted Scott Thompson from Classic Exhaust and tailpipes for 1952-59 Fords will run $120 for both sides plus shipping.Phone is (440)466-5460 ask for Him when you call and tell Him you are a group member. http://classicexhaustinc.com/exhaustsystems.htm#Ford (This link is still good as of Aug 2018) However call for current pricing.

Last edited: Aug 28, 2018
JeffB2, Jul 31, 2012

 

Aluminum Radiator Source: 1967 Mustang 8 cylinders have a passenger side lower hose these Mustang radiators will bolt in a 1949-56 Ford you can also find the matching Mustang shrouds for around $35-$50. This is the radiator of choice if using the 1966-69 289 "short" water pumps. Example: https://www.ebay.com/itm/NEW-3-ROWS...AOSwbsBXic5p:sc:FedExHomeDelivery!85037!US!-1

Last edited: Aug 28, 2018
JeffB2, Aug 16, 2012

 

Power Windows for a trouble free power window upgrade took to Nu-Relics for a simple bolt in kit that fits like a glove. They are more $$ than a universal kit but worth every penny.

http://nu-relics.com/ford_cars_ford.html

Guide to posting pictures.
fordsbyjay, Aug 18, 2012

 

12 volt to 6 volt for your gauges: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=448038

JeffB2, Aug 19, 2012

 

If you convert the '56 to disc brakes it may work if it will line up with the mounting holes in the firewall,if you are going to keep the drum brakes you will need to install a proportioning valve in the system to work with the 1990 master cyl.

JeffB2, Aug 20, 2012

 

I saw reference to this article about Ford rear axles over on the 'Barn, from Hemmings & thought it might be of interest too some over here too: http://www.hemmings.com/hmn/stories/2012/03/01/hmn_feature30.html

raceron1120, Sep 2, 2012

 

6 to 12 volt conversions and generator to alternator,this link refers to a 50's Chevy but almost everything can be modified and used on our Fords: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=689017 Lots of handy sources and part numbers are in the link.

JeffB2, Sep 9, 2012

 

Tech Info on using AN fittings and hoses: http://www.rodauthority.com/tech-st...se-practices-with-fragola-performance-systems Video on AN's https://www.racingjunk.com/news/vid...2_26_20_Burnout_Newsletter Content Newsletter

Last edited: Dec 30, 2020
JeffB2, Sep 28, 2012

 

Thinking about doing an engine swap? Handy chart right here: http://www.carnut.com/specs/engdim.html This chart lists the weight of most engines http://www.gomog.com/allmorgan/engineweights2.html Guide to Ford engine block codes https://www.enginelabs.com/engine-tech/a-guide-to-ford-v8-engine-block-casting-numbers-1952-1996/ (Of course Ford in a Ford is a good thing)

Last edited: Oct 19, 2019
JeffB2, Oct 2, 2012

 

This is a link regarding the Ford AOD used in some swaps,always look for a 1988-93 donor as these have the improved lubrication and upgraded valve body http://www.hemmings.com/mus/stories/2006/05/01/hmn_feature5.html Update 12/3/2020 additional Tech (It relates to a Mustang but you can disregard some of that) https://www.fordmuscleforums.com/threads/c4-to-aod.470612/

Last edited: Dec 3, 2020
JeffB2, Oct 15, 2012

 

Does any one have a definite answer to what heater core will work in a 54? I read that a 78/79 f-100 will work and a early comet/falcon will work. (the heater core in my 54 was out of something different as they jb welded the tabs on) Some guys have adapted mid 80's Ford Ranger cores. From "Sticky" Page 5 Post# 137 Autozone part Spectra 399025 Around $30.

Last edited by a moderator: Oct 25, 2020
sobpunx, Oct 16, 2012

 

Putting a Y-block in a 1949-53 Ford car lots of pictures and text: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=177373&page=2 Here is another take to doing it. http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/threads/1950-shoe-box-y-block-install.1051398/

Last edited: Feb 21, 2017
JeffB2, Nov 2, 2012

 

Helpful DIY Tips: http://www.hotrodhotline.com/hotrod-md

JeffB2, Nov 16, 2012

 

I have used these folks for Carburetor parts and recommend them to deal with: http://allcarbs.com/salelist.php?stt=30

JeffB2, Nov 25, 2012

 

Sacramento Ford has some manuals and wiring diagrams available:http://www.vintageford.com/sect_search.cfm?Line=1952-56&Category=Books / Manuals

JeffB2, Dec 12, 2012

 

One of the most expensive things in a project can be upholstery so if you are on a budget here are some links to ideas: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=749414 10/8/2020 UPDATE Source for headliners windlace included. https://wlsheadliners.com/classic-ford-mercury-replacement-headliners.html

Last edited: Oct 8, 2020
JeffB2, Jan 29, 2013

 

Got some babies that fit - FINALLY! After getting 2 sets of cheap, non-fitting baby moons (or smoothies, as some call them), the set I got from Hubcap Mike's actually fit, very nicely too. They snapped on using the palm of my hand and with no distortion.

Link to Hubcap Mike's: http://hubcapmike.com/

A couple of pics :




Just what I was looking for.

raceron1120, Feb 20, 2013

 

Another source for the motor mounts we use in a 302-351 swap in 54-59 cars. http://www.latemodelrestoration.com...eo&utm_medium=retargeting&utm_campaign=criteo

JeffB2, Mar 3, 2013

 

Goldmine of "Tips and Tricks" pick a topic off the sidebar and enjoy:http://www.how-to-build-hotrods.com/engine-swap.html

JeffB2, Mar 7, 2013

 

Bringing this to the top again for reference in the "sticky File" as the Aerostar spring swap has been so popular and this link has a ton of before and after Pix: http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=260795

JeffB2, Mar 19, 2013

 

Thinking of swapping out a transmission? New coverage on adapter kits now available here: http://www.transmissionadapters.com/ 223 & Flathead to AOD also late model Mustang stick shift to early engines,call for info.

JeffB2, Mar 19, 2013

 

not all ranger rear axles work depending on aplication) 83-92 7.5 are 56 1/2 wide 83-92 7.5 are 58 1/2 90-92 8.8 are 56 1/2 and 93-99 8.8 are 58 1/2 Full info on them can be found here: http://www.therangerstation.com/tech_library/Ford-8_8-axle.shtml

Last edited by a moderator: May 22, 2018
reallyrotten, Mar 29, 2013

 

in searching for rear shocks for my '55, these are the 3 choices that came up most often as (affordable) OE replacement. Most sites don't seem to include all options if you choose 'Fairlane' as a model, but Hollanders lists this for the interchange:

'52 - '56 passenger
'57 - '58 pass. w/ metal spring except S.W., convertible, and sedan delivery
'55 - '57 T-bird

KYB Gas-A-Just KG5517
Extended Length: 17.87"
Compressed Length: 10.91"
Travel: 6.96"

Gabriel Guardian Shock 81270
Extended Length: 17.67 in.
Compressed Length: 10.56 in.
Travel: 7.11 in

Monroe Monro-Matic 31125
Extended Length 20.75"
Compressed Length 12.25"
Travel: 8.50"

BruceMc, May 19, 2013

 

Ford parts Vendors list: http://www.bigalslist.com/vendors/ford.htm

JeffB2, Jun 11, 2013

 

UPDATE: On replacement heater blower motors if you go from 6 volt to 12 volt this is the new Dayton part # These will bolt right in no mods needed. https://www.grainger.com/product/DA...CH7&N=0&GlobalSearch=true&tier=Not+Applicable

Last edited: Jan 9, 2023
JeffB2, Jul 10, 2013

 

Update from Watsons on relays,this is valuable info if you are going to rewire your Ford https://watsons-streetworks.com/a-current-topic/ Many of us have added additional accessories and the original ignition switches are not up to handling the load before they fail also a common complaint is dim headlights even after a Halogen upgrade you will not believe the difference after adding the relays.The section "Current topics" covers relays.

Last edited: May 22, 2018
JeffB2, Jul 23, 2013

 

How to measure for a driveshaft: https://www.dennysdriveshaft.com/how_to_measure.html Ford yokes:http://www.drive-lines.com/dana/tranny_applications.php?model=Ford 1949-56 Ford front joints are 1" diameter cups with inside snap rings,most C4 & AOD with the 3 1/2" yokes have 1 1/16" cups with outside snap rings If you are using the stock rear end you will need a conversion U-joint with these sizes to attach the front yokes listed,notice the length of the yokes available you may be able to use your existing driveshaft by choosing the correct yoke and U-joint.

Last edited: Aug 14, 2019
JeffB2, Jul 24, 2013

 

Great Chart for breaking down Ford's Codes: http://www.mustangtek.com/FordDecode.html This is something you should save if you are doing or planning on a swap.

JeffB2, Sep 10, 2013