I just found a Model A frame. The guy says it's very nice and the only reason he isn't using it is that he plans to put a big block in his coupe and "it is to weak for the motor and to nice of frame to box and cut up " His words. no pictures. I've seen prices all over the map. He has it listed for $200. If it is as nice as it sounds I'd like to get it. Is this a good price? I think it is fair. But I don't want to offend him by offering less and not end up with it. or if it is "very nice" is it a pay now and get the hell out of there situation before he changes his mind? Other than the obvious, what kind of damage should I look for and where. Thanks. I'm going to look at a frame tomorrow. so hopefully all goes well.
That's a good price. The front frame horns are prone to bending because the bumper mounted there and they got hit alot, usually easy to straighten. The front crossmember will break right where the spring clamps, that's real common. Right at the front of the body where the 3 big engine mount holes are is where an A frame will usually bend.
look for bends and twists down it, frame horns as stated are bent alot, often times used as a jacking up spot...
Good advise so far, also sometimes the top of the frame will tear were the rear bumper support attaches...again an easy fit. A frames flex and twist naturally...so just look for cracks, welds and straitness. If it's decent, it's worth 200.00. I'd say a ****ty frame is worth 100.00 and a super gennie frame 300.00. If the guy has the matching ***le though...then the price will go up.
If it's in "real nice shape", as he says, that's real reasonable. I really can't add to what the other guys said to look for, except the obvious heavy rust-pitting. You'll be able to tell...trust yourself. I hope it's real nice for ya! Hey...here's one thought though. Take a tape-measure, and measure from corner to corner. You know...front-right to rear-left, and front-left to rear-right. Should be the same both directions. Use reference points like holes or rivets. That'll tell ya if it's nice and square. Good luck!
One more thought, Hitchhiker. Sight across the rails from one side of the frame or the other. Visually line up the top of both rails. You'll be able to see if they are parallel.
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