Hey everyone, New on here and I'll probably get some flack for what I post so sorry in advance but you guys on here seem to know your stuff so here it is. I'm looking at getting an old international truck and turn it into I guess you'd call it a rat truck but not. The idea is a bike hauler and something to tow just in case I need to. The truck I'm looking at is a 1950 international L130 dually. Now my question to you guys is when starting a project like this, why do people swap frames? What's wrong with the stock frame, i know the s10 ones are popular but they aren't available in a dually nor can they tow haha. Can it be done with the stock frame and lower it? Just wanna find out if it's worth it before I buy it. Thanks guys. Any other info would be appreciated too. I'm a mechanic by trade but not a bodyman. It has some rust in the cab corners and front corner but I think that's it.
You can certainly use the stock frame.Those old IHCs were STOUT ! You will likely find the gearing is a bit short for highway use.Does this truck have the big(401") red diamond OHV six? As far as what it is worth-what you are willing to pay.
I think a lot of people swap frames either out of necessity (bent or rotted out frame) or to get the upgraded brakes, suspension, engine and etc. But the original frame is always going to fit the vehicle better, which equals less headaches...
Questions are good. Knowledge is better. Learning what's acceptable here is Priceless. Don't call your project a Rat anything and you'll do fine. That's pretty well spelled out in our Guide Lines. For what your plans are the Stock Frame will do you just fine. Dual rear wheels, definatly not necessary. Frame swaps are way over rated. Put some photos up of it. The Wizzard
Don't use the word "rat" just a heads up... Alot of people swap frames because that's what they've read in magazines, also when you beef up the suspension on a 1932 Ford, it still drives like a 32 Ford. Not saying that's a problem but alot of people do not understand the difference between driving an old car and a new car... If you wanted to actually put some miles on your truck idea I would recommend swapping out some parts. If your building a kinda work truck I do have a 2001 GM 3/4 ton rolling frame that I was going to build a roll back but my needs have changed and its just sitting.
Energie----Good advice so far---Take some pictures and be a little more precise in your what you want to do. Are you thinking of using the frame? Are you thinking a bout using the original dually rear end? What kind if front suspension, original? What power source is on your mind? These (us) guys are really a good source of information----but we need a scenario to start with. Also, in your Avatar you do not give a location (part of the country you live in, it kind of helps if we have an idea if your in the far boonies or near a hot rod friendly area---also you may well have someone in your area who can chime in with local advice or sources). BILL RINALDI
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