Can anyone tell me the "exact" differences between a 39 Chevy frame, and a 37-8 frame (knee action excluded)? Also, if anyone's got one local for sale(37-8 for sure if 39's different) I have a chance to buy a 39 frame (for my 38), so I really need exact info on this. Front differences, rear differences, etc. I need pretty good intell so I don't waste my money. Thanks
I've wondered this too from time to time. I do know that aftermarket parts are often advertised as fitting 37-39... Also, they all have a 112.3" wheelbase.. so it must be minor changes to fit the new 39 body?
The difference in the 1939 Frame is behind the rear hump of the frame (rear frame horns). I can not remember which one but one goes almost straight from the hump in the rear to where the bumper attaches so the frame is not close to parallel to the floor and the other rear frame horn is almost parallel to the trunk floor. The difference is how the gas filler neck goes through between the frame and body. I have a 38 frame next to a 39 frame. The front section is the same. Hope this helps. I can get pictures if needed but it may take a few days. Email me if needed.
http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/chevyresto/3715.htm http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/shop/1938/38csm047.html http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/chevyresto/3932.htm And heaps more info at http://chevy.oldcarmanualproject.com/
37 frames are different than 38-9. The 37 has a straight run from the rear bumper to the high point above the rear end. The 38-9 is the one pictured above, goes straight forward from the bumper mount holes, then has an arch up to over the rear axle. there can also be differences in the gas tank mounts- sedans and '39 opera coupes were mounted to the frame, bus. coupes were inside the body behind the seat.
Yes, the 37 and the 38 are the same and will interchange. The only differences on the two were the front suspension set-ups as mentioned above. If you planning an IFS swap then you'll be fine with either frame. The 39 is different but not much and I'm not sure how.
In looking at the pics in posts 9 & 11, BOTH my 38 frames, aft of the rearend area looks more like the one in #9 (supposed 39 frame). In the couple or so weeks I've pursued this, it's the FIRST time it appears the 38-9 are the same instead of the 37-8. On BOTH my 38's the rear 15 inches of frame rail are parallel to the ground, and then abruptly go up over the rearend area. On the pictured 37 (which I thought was the same as a 38) the frame rails slant upwards to the rearend area from the rear X-memeber with no portion parallel to the ground. At this point, I'm prolly gonna graft replacement rails from the firewall forward. So, this is of more concern to me now. Keep it coming. Knowledge is EVERYTHING
According to my Hollander's Interchange manaul, the '37 & '38 car frames interchange with each other. The '39 is a one-year only frame and does NOT interchange with either the '37 or '38.
That's what I thought. But, my TWO 38's resemble what's claimed to be a 39 in and earlier post(#9?), and differ from the pic of the 37 in post #11. Keep it coming. Can I use the forward portion of either on my 38 with a I-Beam (stock ) axle?
hi groucho larry here in phoenix. when i looked at the 38 frame for you in the same stack i have a 39 frame. the only difference i see is the rear shackles mount under the frame on the 37-38 and through the frame on a 39. i see no reason a 39 frame would not work under a 38. also thanks for the help on a 38 hood i called the guy and am wating to here back from him.
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