I've been working on a rat rod (traditional for you sensitive guys) the last year or two. I am trying to do it like it would have been done by a guy who came back from WWII using only materials available to him at that time. I have taken a few liberties i.e. updated ******, steering box, wiring harness etc. but it is 95% period perfect. The Jalopy Journal has been a great source of information as this is my first experience with a flathead and traditional suspension. I hope to have it on the road in a couple of months.
Welcome to hamb. Just heads up the term " rat rod" isn't liked to well on here. But I like your saving parts from the s**** yard.
Those guys never built rat rods. They built HOT RODS. Huge difference. By the way, we are not sensitive. We are sensible.
In the post-WWII days, and before, the term was jalopy. They were built using automotive parts from different makes and models. Not bits and pieces from Mack trucks, tractors, Singer sewing machines and so on. "Rat rod" is a fairly new term. Maybe not to you younger guys. But it was never heard back in the day. Sorta came on the scene about the same time as "goth" and "grunge". We just call 'em ****boxes.
Welcome Leland...yeah the "R" word is a no no on this site..it's a "traditional with no paint" to be safe. I like your build and love the flathead power choice for the traditional effect, looks like a fun build and keep us posted.
Leland my family did the "g****s of wrath" thingy during the depression of early thirties ... they came from Oklahoma in a modelT ... mattresses strapped to the car just like a oldtime movie ..... the "T" made it to California because my gramps was good at using parts available to him ... but he didnt do it out of "ratness" ... it was out of neccesity. Here is a pic of my Unkie in his jalopy era 1942 .... again, a car he put together out of neccesity .... Unkie Bill wasnt a rat either but he had a gift that many here appreciate .... thats just the way it was. Welcome. 'Enjoy your stay.
Welcome, but guys coming back from WWII didn't build anything that looked like that. I think your research is off.Look at some of the traditional builds on here and you might be persuaded to change your body and stance to something more appropriate for this site. This is my opinion....the only one that counts...
The Jalopy Journal
