One question, do you want the IFS and the rear bag setup for your truck? If so, it might be worth it. If you plan a more “traditional approach “ then you’ll have parts you have to get rid of plus whatever else work is needed to do the ch***is proper. It’s (the work) will still be needed either way. Have you looked into aftermarket 35-40(1) frames? Been pre-pandemic since I looked. So no clue on pricing now.
the aftermarket rails are now 2 grand the bolt in stang 2 kit is 700 the complete stang 2 front end is 1500 thats 4200 lids plus 800 shipping 5k
I recall some years back, TCI? Maybe, had built frames in 3 different configurations at the Turlock swapmeet. One was IFS but I don’t recall what rearend or how it was mounted, one was a complete frame with crossmembers Ie “frame made for your stuff” and kits to put it all together with their or your parts. I wonder what a frame setup ready to bolt things onto like springs, steering, etc goes for now? Although I don’t recall the prices, it didn’t seem too expensive.
The suspension choice is a compromise. Thinking that it would move the project along if I could just roll it in. If I have to upgrade and reinforce it, that makes it a little less desirable. A pro built rolling ch***is is going to be $15k and I can’t do that. The ch***is that’s under it now has a lot of its own issues. They are all fixable but it’s just time. Probably need to go see it in person to look at things close up.
I’d go look at in person before I decided. Pics can lie, shadows can make things look better or worse than they really are. If it’s going to be hid by fenders the ifs wouldn’t scare me off, but that would be a big no no if going fenderless. At least it’s not a *******ized S10 frame…
Go buy it for $2500, or less. Less is better. Just figure cutting it all apart and replacing it with good. If the framework is any indication of the rear shock mounts, it will all have to cut apart. Just plan on that.
Yeah for what it is I'd offer 2500 and walk away. If I could pick it up for 2500 I'd go for it. Do the mods listed previously and drive it unless you plan on thrashing it then I'd just walk away period. .
Personally, coming from a racing background I see a lot of extra weight, redundant mounts places where one simple mount could have been used to do multiple things instead of multiple mounts only doing one thing.
As others have said the crossmember tubing could be bigger/ stronger, the rear shock mounts should be reinforced, and I bought the same 8" maverick grabber rear axle for $ 75 about a year and a half ago. It fits my model A just fine, but previous owner thought it was too narrow for his ride.
I would keep looking. You stated you really didn't want to do major repairs, this one doesn't qualify. By the time you grind off all that pretty paint so you can fix the light weight, rather poorly designed crossmembers and start over with them, you may be better starting from scratch.
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