I've tried searching this stuff out, but didn't find much... I've got a '38 Ford Standard that is pretty much stock at this point. I plan on making changes that will make the ride a little better on the highway. The next thing on my project list is the front end. I'm trying to decide on a few things, so please give me some input/opinions. I've been looking at Ch***is Eng.'s EZ Rider front end setup, but I'd like to know how it works for everyone. Does it have enough adjustability (Caster/Camber/etc.)? Is there other options that I should check out?? I've seen some kits to adapt different steering boxes on my car, but is it necessary? Is the stocker strong enough to run the highway at 60-65mph? Even if it is strong enough, will I be all over the road? I don't want power steering. I just want to be safe...somewhat safe at least! Thanks for any help that might help me! -Mike
CE's front kit a good. there is no way to adjust camber(it's built into the axle) unless you bend it. the caster is determined ny the wishbone split ki....check it after you get it setup....should be around 5 degrees the stock steering , if it is in good shape and not worn out will be fine. you are then limited to stock type steering wheels..if you want something different, go with a later column and gm steering box , like a vega or saginaw 525
I was looking at a full suspension - front & rear - for my '38 until I drove it. I would like to eventually drop it a bit but it runs, drives, stops, & steers so good as is I hate to tear it apart. 75 mph on the Interstate is no problem for my 85 horses. Keep us posted on what you do. JH
I'm trying to stay fairly true to stock, so as long as the stock steering is strong enough then I'll stick with it. Thanks for the tip. It looks like the CE front end is the way to go. You get just about everything at a very reasonable price. I've already decided to go with the CE rear parallel kit. I've got a 10 bolt sitting in the garage ready to be cleaned up. Now its time to start the tear down. I have a feeling this new hobby is going to hurt the wallet! Thanks again for the info.
I bought a few things from CE and they make good quality stuff, but you may ought to think abought that front end kit before you shell out the bucks. A good friend of mine has one under a 36 ford coupe, and it definately rides like a brand new cadilac, but he can push one of the little covers for the underground tanks at a gas station accross the parking lot with his front axle. I have a 41 that I'm building. It's a work in progress so I cant tell you about how it rides yet, but I ordered one of the cross member kits from speedway motors that lowers the front end by 2 inches. I'm using the original spring, and I beam with that cross member. So far it sits much lower than stock, but not so far down that I'm going to drag anything. I also bought a disk break kit from speedway motors for the front. I think I have about 550 bucks in my front end which includes new king pins and bushings, new tie rod ends, the front cross member, the disk break kit, a kit to split the wish bone with, new shackels and other miscelaneous hard ware. Doc
I'll have to check out the speedway stuff. I did notice they have front end kits, but never payed much attention. I was going to get the brakes from speedway...much cheaper. I guess I have to think about it, but I think the 4" drop setup is what I'm looking for. I might have to keep a decent size tire up front to stay off the ground though. Thanks for the info...I'll see what Speedway has to offer. -Mike
A 4" dropped axle & reversed eye spring will drop the car for sure but shouldn't put you so low you can't still safely drive it most anywhere. If Doc's friend can really push a cover with his AXLE (which I seriously doubt) he's a f'in idiot for driving the damn car. JH
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