how do you convert an IFS frame to a Straight axle?

came about a great deal on a rolling 32 ford frame (almost too good), unfortunately its equipped with an IFS. I wanted to know how difficult it would be to convert it to a traditional straight axle front suspension.
I was thinking it cant be more than just cutting off the a arm brackets, re-filling them and adding a mount for a wishbone....but I could be completely wrong. and it may be costly...so it might be better to trash that idea and go with one that is already set for a straight axle...
are the dimensions in the front rails the same? they might end up being wider on an IFS equipped frame....or then again not. even if it where, Im still not envisioning it being to difficult of a conversion.
couldn't find anything related to this here. so whats the word?

 

Nah... cut off the ifs, then reinstall the stock front crossmember and patch up any areas that need fillin' from the ifs!

 

thats what I figured....thanks

 

You'll need to make sure it's secured when you go cuttin'... I'd put it on a frame table and secure it down, make the necessary cuts and weld in the new crossmember while it's still on the table.

 

This will help too.....http://www.wescottsauto.com/Tech/FrameDiagram1932.pdf

 

Would be more cost effective IMHO to source a good frame and sell this frame off to someone who wants an IFS. By the time you cut the IFS out it would most likely not be that good and have minimal resale if too badly damaged. Then you have all the work ahead tidying up where the IFS was mounted and installing a new front cross member and 4 bar, split bones or hairpin mounts. The cost of another frame would be easily recouped by selling the IFS frame.

 

another good point...but, if its only cutting off the IFS mounts and patching the hole, then it shouldn't come out too badly damaged....but indeed another good option.

 

I cut my IFS out on my 34 frame with a plasma and gringing wheel and had no problem putting in the straigt axle..Dan

 

Yep.

The hardest part is removing the cross member and misc brackets. You want to be careful to not burn holes in the chassis when you do that. The less you burn ot warp the less you have to repair.

But it is doable and no hill for a stepper.

 

thanks guys...tons of help! so I guess it is a good idea to just get the IFS frame and cut it up...lol

 

thats an awesome job! ill take that to reference

 

yeah dans hot rod did it right tack weld angle iron across the top of frame i put a piece between the horns too can never be to careful. then cut it out and put the other in.grind and fill.

 

If's it's a high dollar front end and repo. rails, you might be better off selling that frame and buying another.

 

I tend to agree. Can you show us some pictures?

 

Sorry, no pics yet. ...Im thinking of purchasing the frame from a friend of mine at a pretty good deal considering all it comes with. Im going to take a better look at it this weekend and try to take some pics.