I need some direction on the parts that I need for my 30 Model a coupe. The body is off the frame and now that it is getting colder I want to bring the frame in now . First of all im using the original frame but stretch the rear to fit a 390 Caddy motor and I will box the frame in . I was going with several different engines but it came down to my original idea Cadillac with a Ford 5 speed to a open rear of some sort . I have the front axel , do I have that one dropped ? I also like split wishbones . Need to reverse spring eyes but for the rest of the front end I have no clue as to spindels , brakes , 5" rim bolt circle ? but I like the solid steel wheel look . If I run a 5" bolt circle what rears can I use ? Do I keep the original front spring and front end or do I just buy a front end ? Im going to channel the body just enough to cover frame and my wife keeps insisting that we only chop the top 3" inches instead of the 4" that I want but she is probably right (she is a woman you know) . Anyway I would like to keep The car from leaning towards a street rod with a old looking steel body so I want to use my front bones at least . You guys give me a parts list or a direction .
i'm sure you have pictures of coupes you like on your pc right? why not look at what they did and get a plan as to what you want the outcome to be...
As all of us can look at a pictures since we were toddlers you still need to be taught . I would just like to know the perfered frontends ,springs , steel wheels and parts that people use . Engines and transmissions is what I use to do for 20 years now I am a Landscaper and liking it , but the Frame/suspension section is the only thing that I need for someone set me in the right direction . I have been reading on this forumn for awhile and seen some real nice cars that have been built and the talent that people have here .
check out the search function at the top of the page. click on it, then go to "advanced". it will take you to a page where you can narrow your search down. i like to search '***les only' for keywords. type in model A suspension, or whatever you have a question about and see if it's been brought up before. most likely has, and will have all the info you need. Check out the Tech forums too for good info. post up some pictures of what you've got! we're nosy here on the hamb.
You're definitely in the right place. You need to research the builds here and you'll get your answers. As far as someone giving you a list to build with, that's going to vary with everyone here cuz we all do things to our own liking. Even it you lay out the best of plans, they'll change as the build progresses. All I can say now is start with a broad plan and let it take its course. My build is three and a half years in the making and changes from time to time but the build is still moving towards what I originally intended. About the original axle, I'd be careful working a 78 year old axle when you can buy a new one at pretty good prices. Have you looked at the stuff from Posies, Total performance (and a bunch of others I can't remember right now) they can get you started on a plan. Get out the measuring tape and get started and keep us posted!
sorry buddy! wasn't trying to be smart. you asked a pretty broad question. maybe give us an idea of what you are going for style wise? low stance or high? disk brakes or drums? and to me a 3 or 4 inch chop is perfect on most A's.
No problem im just spinning in circles . First I was going to install a caddy engine then it went to a y block to a packard V8 and now its a 390 caddy with a 5 speed . Im definately using a CADILLAC Motor . Im just looking for someone to tell me what parts to keep an eye out for thats all . Do builders use different/later front ends in A's ? Better parts ? I want to drive it and not be a total Rat and not enjoy it .
pete and jakes parts cat has detailed pics geometry, fundimentals, set up. Hairpins, ladder bars , frames, crossmembers. speedway motors sells all kinda **** for a's gaslight for body and top wood kits, floor pans, henry ford repop **** 937 652 2147 used stock 39 ford clutch and brake pedals in mine e-bay **** mooneyes made my custom off-set steel wheels build the car to fit your body in it. I love a radically channel A but dont fit my topis chopped 5" rear Z-ed 6" I am 6' foot and have really big muscles from lifting beer
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