So I have a '32 cab that I'll be channeling over a z-ed model A frame. The original brackets for the hood latches and what I would guess are the cowl mounts are there on the frame, so I'm hoping I can use these as general guidelines as to where to position the cab front to rear on the frame. Obviously, this cab was never meant to be put on this frame, so the mounting points are not correct for the cab. Is there a general method that people use to do this, or do most of you just start by attaching the grill shell/rad, then engine/trans, and then figure out where the body goes from that? I don't have a firewall yet, so hpefully that won't keep me from moving forward. Any thoughts on how to proceed?
Jason Johnson (KIller) here did that or helped his friend smokey do that. Jason will probably have the link to build photo's. That was a bitchin truck before the wreak!
are you using the whole model a frame? i guess that it is irrelevant, just curious. i set mine up by going from where i want the back wheels to be, ie. center of wheel well and center of axle and then go from there. i'd worry about the grill shell later/last.
Yes, I'm using the whole model A frame. Minus horns, but again, irrelevant. I don't have a bed for it yet, and I'm far more concerned about having the cab too far forward or back. I'll be shortening whatever bed I get, most likely, so the rear is less of a concern for me. Anyone know what the measurement was/is from a fixed point (let's say the radiator mounting holes on the front xmember) to the front of the cowl (not the firewall) on the A pickup? That would probably help a lot, actually.
I'm not sure that stock measurements from the cowl to the radiator mount will help much, as there a ton of variables that dictate that distance. What motor/tranny combo, leaving clearance from the motor-to-radiator, and making the proportions appealing etc etc I think you will need to mock up all that you have-front/rear end, frame, motor/tranny, and grille shell. Set it at the desired ride height, then make it fit so it works and looks right. Thats really the only way to get a grasp on it imo. Have you done a mock-up yet?
No, haven't done a mock-up. I don't have wheels/tires or trans. I have a 59A flathead and know that I will be using a '39 trans. Don't have grille shell either, so not much mocking up is possible. Body/cab has no floor and as such is pretty floppy, so setting it on the frame is probably a bad idea maybe? I guess I have to do it to start the channeling anyhow, eh? No better time than the present. I have the front and rear end set up and the motor/trans mounts are done. I guess I'm close. That's sort of what I figured though. Start from the front and work back.
If you are installing hood and side panels, the radiator height will dominate, unless you plan on having a radiator made to fit the existing space. When channeling the body, rake on the frame will also have a bearing on the radiator position/height. To start, slave everything in place with blocks and clamps. Eyeball the whole thing with wheels on the ground, pay close attention to location of the rear wheel/body relationship. When everything fits, mount the radiator higher with a 1/4 inch stack of washers that can be removed, or added to, later on for tweeking hood fit. Then mount the cowl and fit the hood. A couple of shims under all three body mount bolts, front, mid, back, will be helpful when adjusting for final door fit.
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