Hot Rods What to buy next...help me do this right the first time.

Here's the deal...a few years back I started buying parts for a Hot Rod project. Then, life happened and I had to toss cash elsewhere. Thank goodness for this site, it showed me that what I originally wanted to build was only gonna get me something to put a FOR SALE sign on. I have since become obsessed with 30-31 coupes on 32 rails. I built a model a frame out of 2x4 box and it came out really good (I think) but I know ill regret not going w a 32 frame if I don't. I have a 31 cowl, 50 Caddy 331, and most of the suspension parts that I've bought when money allowed. So here's the question.... Should I buy the rest of the body (or a whole body) next or a set of deuce rails and get the frame more complete? I can think or a few benefits to each but I wanted to see what you guys would recommend. So lemme know what you think and why...thanks.


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If you want a 30-31 roadster on Deuce rails by all means do it.

Start building the frame,then get the body. HRP

 

yes buy the rails first, you have a cowl to use for mockup.

 

I would find a body next. That way you could work on the body as you save for the frame. CTJ

 

If he is building a 30/31 on Deuce rails he is going to need the frame to make the Model A body couture to the 32 rails. HRP

 

If you won't be happy with anything but a 32 frame ,then don't waste time and money building something you won't be happy with. A 32 frame is a lot more marketable than a 2x4 frame.

 

This about sums up my concerns. Can't totally do one without the other. I've been thinking frame first too lately. Is it common/"safe" to put my roller together without a body (assuming I don't make stupid mistakes)?


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Got that backwards. A lot easier to bend the rails to fit the body than the other way around.

Buy a body and make it solid first. Then draw an outline on the floor and bend the rails to fit that outline.

 

Look for a body first. ASC isn't going to stop making rails anytime soon. If you can find a nice body go for it. The body is harder to get.

 

On the other hand, if you are going to channel it, most of the frame won't be seen anyway...something to think over.

 

Is all that needs altered the front cowl section of the body? I'm thinking I'm gonna go for the look of "Bubbas coupe". A Bass build. Haven't decided on pinch or not. If I do I think I would just spread the cowl "Rolf" style.


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Damn,I've built 2 wrong. HRP

 

Yes, go with a '32 frame. Sell the Model A frame. If you don't build the car the way you dream it, it'll end up going down the road for less than you'll have into it.

 

Get all the parts, then start

 

You know, I thought of that, but to be honest, It'll be a few years till I can have all this put together and coming up with all the cash at once won't happen. I'm not that disciplined. Maybe someday.


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Your lack of buckets of cash can make for an impressive build..as far as a perfect example of an old build.

Tons of cash at once, gives you a pile of repro parts, all of which will show. It looks dead and lifeless IMO. I would rather go without a car.

Keep scouring for all the old parts you want to use, column, wheels, frame, lights,etc. It takes a long time but will be worth the effort.

 

Couldn't agree more f&j. Seems like its about six o one half dozen of the other as far as which to get so ill just hold out for a "can't pass up" deal at the Carlisle swap meet. If that doesn't happen ill prob buy rails and get that going while I save for a body. Thanks for the advice here and inspiration elsewhere on the site guys! Ill try to keep you posted.


Posted from the TJJ App for iPhone & iPad