I was told about, and am going to look at a 59 dodge panel this weekend. Supposed to be a running, driving slant 6 3spd. I have no clue as to the body condition etc.. What Im wondering to myself is... Does anyone have any pics of these done up? Lowered, etc... And what is the most economical way to lower one? I know nothing about these, nothing. I tried searching threads on the HAMB but came up empty. Any help, suggestions, pictures?? Thanks
Not all panel's but you get the idea. I know that they are like most 50's vehicles and are prone to rusting. Check aound the rear doors, etc.
The ones w/o windows is named "Town Panel". The ones with windows is named "Town Wagon". Last year made is 1966. They still had plywood floors & straight front axle. Prone to rust above windows because of poor drainage around top /side seam. I have a perfect hood if you need it. Same frame width as a powerwagon, but Town Wagon frame is longer. Easy to front-half the front frame from a Powerwagon on to the back half of the TW frame - giving you ps/pdb/V8 mounts. 49T&C
Thanks guys. So clipping it or typical MII is best bet to lower it... Is the rear on top on the springs or below the springs like early chevs and fords?
here you go There's nothing sleek about these things, might as well put it up in everyone's face http://www.pinztrek.com/townwgn/townwgn.htm
Front and rear axles are under the springs. The inline 6 was still a flathead, either a 230ci or a 251ci. (both still used through 1960 model year). The 58 body was basically unchanged through the end in 66. Flipping the axles above the springs will lower it a lot, but you will probably have some clearance issues on both ends. Under that big heavy body is a run of the mill 58 Dodge truck. Most upgrades in the drive train or suspension or brakes were a simple bolt on swap from a "newer" truck through 71 model year. Don't get too excited, weren't many major changes just some upgrades through the years. Gene