This is my first build but I have been into hot rods since I was a little kid. What I have is a 32 pickup with a 283. A few years ago when I decided to build something I was not very aware of the traditional style but I knew I didn't like the Boyd look with Lexus engines. To me I wanted something to drive not just driven to car shows. Rat rods always seemed too ratty for me so that wasn't going to fit the bill. So I started to collect parts and slowly discovered the traditional style. That is why there are some not so traditional parts on my truck (Wheels, disc brakes, 5 speed). I think over time I will change those parts but for now I cannot justify buying new ones. Wheels and tires are at the top of the list. Anyways I would appreciate your help in guiding me along. I love to learn even when it is hard. The frame is a Blackboard frame which is top notch. The cab is a 32 and was sectioned about 4 inches in the 70's I got it from Salt Flats Speed Shop. The engine is an original 1966 283 out of a pickup.
hell looks pretty traditional to me.the wheel will even work, but then I am biased I love old trucks tom
Really super nice start. That section job screams for about a 3" haircut. Sounds like you're on track for a very cool P-up build. Keep us updated.
So glad to see the sectioned truck still lives. I remember Salt Flats said he was considering adding the sectioned material back in. I'd hate to see that happen. But I do agree a slight chop would bring the pickup back into proportion.
That has the making of a really cool truck. If you take about and inch and a half out of the top and run it full fendered, that would be a really cool looking rod. Maybe like this one:
Great looking truck,the wheels..not so great. I too have a deuce pickup,there can never be too many! HRP
Love the sectioning!! the cab looks great!! The engine is real cool too. I agree with fneders making it "come around". I also would consider a wheel/tire change. I think you could sell those for enough to buy some steelies and maybe tires. I just sold a '32 pickup (couple of years ago) so I really like trucks...mine had wires on it.......????? Tim
Thanks for the comments. I was also thinking of a mild chop. The pictures make the cab look more out of proportion than it does in real life. I was going to chop it but then decided to get it running first and then make my decision on how much of a chop. Yesterday I ordered some lake headers from Gear Drive. Also I’m trying to figure out what size of a radiator it needs because I took 4 inches out of the grille shell. This has been a whole new learning experience for me, some things I’m clueless about but I keep plugging forward and it has been a blast so far. So keep the suggestions going it will help me build a better truck.
Good idea. Don't chop it until you've sat in it, with the seat installed. Those cabs are CRAMPED even in stock form. The sectioning already made it even more cramped. A chop might render it un-driveable for you....or a potential buyer if/when you ever decide to sell her.....
I am getting close to buying new wheels and tires. I am going to buy steel wheels with some bias ply tires. Please give your opinion on what size would look good. I’m thinking about 600-16 Firestone black walls up front and 700-16 out back. Keep in mind that my rear axle is a 58” axle. Your opinions are appreciated.
Nice job on the floor pans. Me likey. If you want more 'rubber rake', you can go with 7.50 tires out back. Keep the pix coming, this is biscuits and gravy!
Thanks for the comments. I am also getting ready to weld in my steering box and have a few questions. Do I set the pitman arm with the same angle as the caster angle? Which will change by going to larger front tires so would I match the angle of the crossmember which is at 3 degrees right now. Or should I wait until new tires are installed?
Lots of work done today. Started working on the dash. First real project with the rivet gun. Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
For what it is worth. 500 or 550 x 16 tyres look better, 600 tyres are a little big on front. 750 are only about 1/2 inch bigger diameter than 700x16 so minimal difference. Keep existing valve covers. I would put cab back to stock height if possible and stock height grille? All of these are my personal choices as others have also given theirs. Look at pics or better still real life examples of what others have done and go from there.
If I went with 750-16 tires on back. Which tire size for the front would look best 550-16 or 600-16. Not alot of progress on the truck this week lots of overtime at work. Thanks.
Hard to say what would 'look best' since it's so subjective. here's a shot of 750's & 600's, but the camera angle skews it a bit....my next front set might be 550's for more of a 'big n littles' look....
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