Started putting together some parts and pieces for a fairly in depth, lengthy project. Since the donor car is so far past its prime, I don't feel so bad about the impending cuts. The plan is to reserect a 56 Metropolitan, that I rescued from a field. Of course, I'm looking at more power... the plan is for a twist on the all too common "Small Block Met". I envision a few custom touches. A "Best of the big 3". Hoping it'll turn out. A G***er Metropolitan, SBC with an Edelbrock X1 log ram, Velocity stacks, fender headers, and moon racing tank. Emulate the '59 Lincoln headlights, and rework the tail section with some '58 Impala tail fins. And if I get froggy, perhaps a removable hardtop.. if the Met's top is salvageable.
I had the ragtop version of those little beggers when I was in high school and you had better plan on building a tube frame for it. Those bodies flex like crazy in a stock version.
Figure about 43' of 2x3 .120 wall to give the little uni body some much needed support... as the floor pans and sheet metal c-channel were 70% rotted away. Hopefully, it will support a small block, solid front axle, and the Ford 9" I set aside. The removal of the top is what frightens me. It may need more support with the top removed. I have to re-check the torque moments and see.
Ive seen a couple small block metros, and think they are kinda cool, but every inch is critical. Make sure you are considering seating and foot room. I'm over 6'5, so it would never be my choice, but it doesn't matter how cool it is if you can't fit in it comfortably for more than ten minutes. Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
I can see that. Definitely won't be a daily commuter as a raised straight axle car with an 85" wheelbase, and 45" track. I'd imagine it somewhere along the lines of Mr. Toad's Wild Ride.
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