I have a lot of questions about custom frames and how to make it work for my projects. I see a lot of custom frames being built for 32' roadsters and other cars like that. For my project I want to build a frame for a 53-54 Chevy (like Jesse james 53') but a 4 door. I was wondering if anybody has tried this? If anybody has some pictures or a starting diagram that would help. I am looking to use monte carlo front suspension system with a ford 9 inch rear end. If I am too crazy on what I am doing I would like to know I am out of my mind too! Anything would be helpful!
Why not the stock frame. If you're hell bent on doing your own frame with an oem front clip run a g body or an s10. Camaro is too wide. What type of rear suspension were you thinking?
Really want to do my own front clip as well! I was thinking doing a Ford 9 inch rear end something I have worked with before on Stock Cars and building it up like a NASCAR truck suspension! Not looking into bagging it.
Call Art Morrison in Fife, Wash. (go to their website) start with their perimeter rails tell them what you want,, follow their lead,,, done deal. Frames are the same for 2 doors / 4 doors.. Crazy,? depends how old ya are,,, gotta be old, ta be crazy.
Truck suspensions are legit. Search threads on here. There is a lot of debate on ideal ways of setting these up but the truck design is a good one
Hi Ace, I read your profile page and it looks like you are just getting started in this vintage car thing. It also says you are serving in the military (thank you very much). My only suggestion is not to discourage you but for myself my projects seem to take a long time anymore. Building your own frame, regardless of the car is a serious commitment of time and money. Your day job is quite time consuming, no? I have been working on my car for the last 15 years, but have been at stopping points where I have been able to drive it and enjoy it. If building a frame from scratch makes you happy, I say go for it. Just be prepared for lots of garage time and $$.
Yeah its consuming 16 plus hours on F/A 18 Hornets for the Marines will be challenging. I am using this as a learning process really want to turn into the salty hamb guy! I also want something different then the BIG TRUCKS or the RICERS that are on base I want that one thing that is different then the rest!
I agree with Gahrajmahal. as someone who has done this for a living for almost 20 years it's a big commitment. A lot more than most people realize. I would sugest keeping the stock frame unless you - have access to a frame table, know how to fab and weld like a pro, know how to set up suspensions, and had several years of experience...building a frame should not be a learning process. Just ues the stock frame.
Check out this thread. It may inspire you to gor for it and do your own if you have the skills. [PROJECT] Laidout53 Part II (http://www.jalopyjournal.com/forum/showthread.php?t=520334)
If you are building frames or want to then a frame is a learning experience and part of the process. You have to build the first one if you are ever going to build one. That said the stock frame can be clipped and have the truck arms added easy enough and should do well for cutting teeth.
Save your efforts for the outside, and the parts that people can see, if your desire is to impress. Custom frames are impressive, only to other chassis builders, only when they are done well, if they ever see them. I am a pro chassis and suspension builder. It took me over 25-years to get here, and still, most of my work is invisible when done, and never thought of ('cause it always works right, now anyways).
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