Hello all, Just dragged home a 1941 Ford COE. It's rough, but I have high hopes of making the sheet metal driver level acceptable with more modern parts underneath. Maybe extend the cab or make a 4 door with a pickup bed. Anyone need a flathead V8? thanks, Rick
Welcome to the HAMB! I'm still new myself. A COE is one thing I want to build. I know of one close to my house. I just don't have the space to park it at my house right now. Post pics of the build!
The COE was named Buford by my buddy Mike that went with me to get it. Despite my wife's initial dislike, it looks like the name will stick. (and it's got FORD in it!). The intent is a unique daily driver that will replace my aging Dodge Dakota. It will also be a tow vehicle and need to make NH to Florida runs with 3000 lbs in tow. I still question if I can make a 70 year old cab tolerable for drives like that. We'll see. Originally, I was thinking a hauler that could carry Jeeps like the '57 in my avatar and maybe the boat on its back, but I've tossed that plan as I just can't see a 2 ton truck as a daily driver. "Zipping around town" doesn't seem to go along with those specs. It's truly an open slate right now and the next year will probably be used to get some ideas on that "slate". Early thoughts are: Donor 4x4 F-150 or Dakota underneath. Reasonable V8 power at a minumim, maybe more but must be DD friendly. Maybe chop the top a bit, but don't ruin the view from the cab. Extended cab or 4 door. Tossing around engine placement.. It seems the original location is the right spot, but floor area is a concern also. Pickup bed 6.5 feet. Lowered, but not dragging on the ground. I'm guessing I can do this w/o bagging it. Headlights "flush" mounted. maybe a pair of 1940 Ford sedan units? No bumpers. Thinking about something behind the apron for crashes. Hoping, of course, that I NEVER use it. Taillights "hidden". I'm not sure what's used here, but I've seen them on motorcycles where you can't even tell they are lights until they are turned on. Any and all input is appreciated. Here are a few pics... Like I said, it's rough! A rotisserie of some sort and media blasting will be first to see what's left. I'm new to this level of work so please feel free to chime in. thanks, Rick [/IMG]
Thats one sweet COE. Don't be afraid to make a daily there are a few on here drivin daiy.... Nice score, Good luck with your build