Got a 50 coupe I'm gonna start on when Uncle Sam pays up. I want it to steer and stop modern. What do y'all think is the best solution? My original thought was disc conversion and the Fatman's rack conversion. After reading Po-boys Shoebox builders guide, it seems like they're junk. A lot of guys do the s-10 clip. Can you put a sb ford in if you go this route? Do you have to z the frame? Whats the deal with the trick tie rod kit from fatmans? If you can't find a Volvo steering box, can you use the original? Are original shoebox suspensions really all that bad? A lot of questions, I know. Just don't want to spend a ton of money or wish I had done something different when its all done. Thanks
Mine works and it's 62 yr old! Replace any worn out parts. Maybe swap springs (I used Aerostar coils), adjust gear box if needed, keep it greased and drive it!
I think thats what I needed to hear. You got any pics? Curious what just aerostars and maybe blocks in the back looks like.
Search for the aerostar coils and you'll see it looks good. I've had several and if you replace worn out parts and adjust the gearbox they drive just fine. Lotsa info on here about shoeboxes
get the steering box rebuilt if you do keep it stock, cheap insurance. if you can do it yourself it wont cost much. i sent mine out cost me about 250. and it works like new!
Here's the thread about the Aerostar springs. Great info! http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=260795&highlight=aerostar+springs
Jamco has everything you need like dropped uprights, disc brake conversion, Volvo boxes, lowered leaf springs, etc.............
I have a 50 as well. I used the "L" bracket from Jamco to relocate the upper a-arms. I'm using Aerostar coils. I'm running disc on the front as well as disc in the rear. As for steering, I'm experimenting with a few different boxes as I am not going to run a rack/pinion. But I do want power steering.
Hey, there's nothing wrong with what Henry used in the cars just like flathead pete said. Check out the guys at shoeboxford.com - there's some guys on there that knows everything there to know about a shoebox. There a simple kit that you can convert you front brakes to disc and retain your MC, wheels and spindles - and it's cheap! I took 1 coil out the front and got 2" blocks plus I took out 1 2' spring out the rear - old school! Rides great stops great, and handles great with 21 years old bias Firestone!
On the message board go to "Search the Forum". Put in "Pic request". Look down the page. You will find a request for shoebox suspension. I posted step by step on building suspension using JAMCO rear and Fatman's front dropped upright setup.
I have asked my self the same question about my 51 shoe, I did the king pins and got the disc conversion. I am not to happy with the disc conversion though<the car is not near ready to be on the road> it used some bearing "adapters" that do not seem right to me. the two steering boxes i have available to me are both worn out and are very expensive to build. I still go back and forth on what direction to go on this clip it or go stock, but i think its preference. good luck and take lots of pics. Matt
You seem like a ******** Ford guy, so why are you asking about an S-10 clip? That being said, I have one with a sbc in my shoebox and it is mega low, steers great, and stops perfect on bias ply's. I don't know what more you'd want!
Thanks for the info! For the record I love them old Fords, and all old stuff for that matter. Sorry, but the sbc is soooooooo cliche. Just get sick of seeing them. Probably will go with original IFS. I'll be sure to do***ent it to add to the vast info on the shoebox. Thanks again
Jen's (my wife) will run and drive Sunday. We'll see how it rides and stops. Prolly just like the '51 before it!
You seem like a ******** Ford guy, so why are you asking about an S-10 clip? That being said, I have one with a sbc in my shoebox and it is mega low, steers great, and stops perfect on bias ply's. I don't know what more you'd want! So Mr Happy, how does the S-10 track compare to the stock Ford.? Does it look too wide, do the tires rub on the fender lip when you turn..? Just askin cause I'm contemplating a sub frame. I understand a Dodge Dakota (circa mid 80s) would also work well.
The S-10 clip is almost a perfect fit. We just finished one in the shop. It will be rolling 6.70-15's, as soon as it is back together.
Dude ... are you for real ?? On every shoebox thread ??? I realize that you're frustrated , but c'mon !! No need to post it EVERYWHERE . BTW - it's WASTE , not waist .
6.70-15's on early Corvette steel wheels and the tires just rub the fenders at full lock. There's some good info on S10 clips on here if you do a search.
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