I am trying to get all my parts and plans lined up and looking for suggestions. I have a 30 coupe and I have boxed the frame and I am trying to decide which way to go from here. I have a 8ba flatty and the ****** that came with it out of a 53 pickup. I also have a rear end out of a 58 F100. I would like to keep the wishbones front and rear and run 35 wires. I have ordered a 4" drop axle for the front and plan to use F1 brakes and steering box. I'm very new to building a traditional model A, does anybody se any problems with what I have so far? Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
I would say you have your first duck in the rite place by coming here. I cant help you out but someone should chime in, I will at least give you a bump.
Generally, it sounds real good. Nice that you wanna do a traditional build. Just a couple things. I'm not positive, but with the 4" dropped axle, and the front wishbone unsplit, you may have a clearance issue with bones and the bottom of the framerails. You might find that you need to split the bones. Someone else will have to verify this. In the rear, the original wishbone is great for articulation, but they really weren't designed strong enough to control the rear axle on their own. They were meant to work together with the torque tube which you've eliminated with the use of the truck trans and later rear axle. I believe that stronger or additional swing arms will be needed. Some may disagree...I think there are those who depend on the bones alone. Again, consider other's suggestions. The only other thing I can think of right now is whether the '58 truck axle is the right width for your application. Guys???
Not positive, but I think that transmission has a granny low 1st gear? Search for a 39 top shift trans and you can bolt it directly to the stock model a axle with the torque tube if you still have it. Then bolt on some hydraulic brakes from a 39-48 axle. If you enjoy a lot of fab work you can make or order the stuff to mount the "A" spring on your F100 rear, fab a driveshaft, 4 link, etc. Read a bunch of the build threads in the archives, lots of good info. Everything on here makes it look easier than it is, haha. Ask me how I know.
I think that the F100 rear axle will be a little wider than you want. Especially if you plan on running a narrow wheel and tire. As has been said you'll have to decide whether you want to keep it a closed drive line or go open. Most of your fabrication will go into the rear. Has the frame been kicked up in the rear or is it stock other than being boxed? Do you have any pictures of what kind of stance you would like to aim for with yours? Another recommendation, get the book "How to Build a Traditional Hot Rod," by Vern Tardel and Mike Bishop. Just about everything you need to know whether you are hunting for parts at a swap meet or building a car, this book covers it all. http://www.verntardel.com/products/how-to-build-a-traditional-ford-hot-rod
I would think there should be no change in clearance regarding the relationship between the bottom of the frame and a dropped axle?
Your in a good place! Just go easy and it will happen and then you will say why did I rush! Good Luck.
You guys are of course absolutely correct. Boy...I wasn't thinking on that one...lol. 87notch, forget what i said about this. Duhhhhhh!
Thanks for the input guys. I don't mind fab work I just don't like throwing away money. Well I don't mind it if it's for my hot rods. Posted using the Full Custom H.A.M.B. App!
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