52 F3 frame swap

finding a lot of good info here; getting ready to start the frame swap; I've located a 98 explorer 2wd 2dr; Im looking to purchase this week; any info or suggestions would be appreciated; has anyone done this swap?

 

Here is a link to what someone else started I don't think they finished it though.

http://www.explorerforum.com/forums/showthread.php?t=174298


I can say from my experience that a rebuilt stock ch***is handles and rides very nicely once the springs and kingpins are rebuilt.....I drive an f-1 everyday...... You may want to consider just using f-1 springs in the front pulling a bunch of the rear leaves.

 

Search S-10 swap. My experience with Explorers and Rangers has always been negative. Their a little *** backwards in my opinion.

 

Thats an awfully short ch***is isn't it???? What are your plans for behind the cab?

 

I got the option on the 4 dr as well; pulling dimensions this evening off both frames compared to the f3; as far as the f3 frame, I haven't ruled out reworking it an the suspension; I m at the point where I've got to make a decision and go with it; it's time to start back up; dismantle is complete; the work is extensive either way; elbow grease is cheap.

 

F-3? big fenders? I'd put that ****er on a 1 ton truck ch***is.

 

heres my 52 f2 on 79 chevy frame fits alright but not ideal..everyones doin s10 swaps but i wanted somethin a little more heavy duty

 

What is the desired end result of your build??? Are you trying to turn an F3 into a half ton (F1), or are you wanting to keep the big truck proportions?? If you want the half ton, the Explorer frame will work, but frame swaps are a ton of work for very little pay off (you are still going to have to swap engine and trans unless you plan on using the 4.0 V6 or 4.6 SOHC - yuck). Look for an F1 frame an upgrade the suspension with new bushings, springs and shocks, or (blasphemy warning) put in an IFS. There are a ton of kits out there to convert to Mustang II or Volare or Dakotas, or whatever. If you want the big truck look, find a late model Diesel pickup ch***is, and size everything correctly.

Bottom line, just because something is cheap doesn't mean that it is correct. Good Luck and post pictures of your progress so the rest of us can learn a thing or two.