I've never been a "car guy," but I've always loved the look of cl***ic rides. Now, after a little brush with death, I want (at the very least) a rat rod for starters. So I've narrowed it down to a Chevy 3100 or a Ford F100. Anyone have any advice on which would be the best to get into for starters? I really like the step/flareside look but I want a daily driver. Which of these can I pick up stock, get running, and use?
Well this is a loaded question. Buy with in your ability. Be patient, and don't limit yourself to a specific type. A rat rod to me is some what dangerous cause you never know what the last guy has done to make it work. Look abroad for your truck of choice, and don't be afraid to go far to get it. I love in Florida and found a truck in Texas at a far better price then what I could get here even with playing shipping. Good luck and be patient. My two cents watch Expendables and build that ford. Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
Welcome. In case you haven't noticed, RAT ROD is a dirty word here. I'd try to build a decent respectable looking driver, Ford, Chevy, or whatever you like. Both of those models are easy to work on and parts are available. As mentoned you will probably have to go south west for a decent rust free driver.
Aside from the Rat-Rod comment that you will undoubtedly get beaten to death about... Both are potentially good candidates for a driver with lots and lots of parts and aftermarket support. What year Chevy were you looking at? Be aware that if you are looking at early-1955 and earlier trucks 45-55 mph is all you are going to manage with the stock enclosed-driveshaft drivetrain. Late-55 (aka Second Series) and up will do sane-highway speeds all day long. Posted using my Lil' Orphan Annie Secret Society Decoder Pin
I'm already regretting the RR statement. Being ignorant of it all I don't know where the line is drawn between Hot Rod and Rat but, having just a read a lot, I'm definitely not talking Rat Rod - just a respectable ride I can drive right away and work on as I am able. I am leaning toward the Chevy if only because of the curves. One is a '54 3 speed manual and the other is a '55 automatic. I didn't know second series allowed highway speeds - these are still 3 speeds, no?
It's nice to see you've already learned a great deal here Gr***hopper. Also the 47-54 Chevy trucks are not only nice looking, parts are reasonable and available thru many specialty dealers.
Just change to an open driveshaft and later rearend. My 48 Chevy panel truck has a 350/350 and Nova rear.
Sure but for the time being I'm looking to get into an already running truck that needs cosmetic work. This is going to be an inexpensive starter.
The number one thing to think about in your project is you have to like it. Number 2 is give yourself a reasonable and easily affordable budget. Number 3 is to have fun with it (could be swapped with number one). I'm a ford guy so let's look at this from the other side. I don't care what year chevy truck you like you can't beat a 350 motor. Tried and true, plenty of parts availability , lots of people have built them and can advise you on what you might need. Trans is the same with the turbo 350. If you like a stick a t5 will have the overdrive and help keep it hi way drivable. What it looks like is up to you. Make sure your brakes steering and suspension are fresh and tight and your project will drive well, not like a new Sierra but well. Plan it, budget it, build it and have fun with it. Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
Appreciate it. Really, any numbers of styles would scratch this itch. I forgot to mention a 50's Chevy Deluxe. That being the case it will come down to budget and it'll have to be a ride I can get into for under 3k.
Thanks '55. What are the disadvantages/advantages of manual vs auto trans in the context of '50's era 3 speeds?
Welcome! I am a big fan of the 55-59 chevy task force trucks, you can not go wrong with them. You can rebuild one ground up from a catalog and get driveline parts from any local parts store. Mine is a stick and it is lots of fun to drive but it is a PITA in traffic.
Not trying to scare you but a manual is not going to be like an auto that you're used to. It takes a few seconds to get going. Braking is fine, problem is other people or the a hole factor. There is always one or two or six, that absolutely need to get to the next red light first. The will say stuff, give you the finger, start beeping, try to cut you off etc...I try not to be in traffic with my four speed.
Well all that seems to be true regardless of what I'm driving, so I'm not frightened in the slightest.
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