Being pretty green when it comes to the 32 ford I was wondering if you guys could suggest some good resources(reading material or links) for me to learn from. I'm mostly interested in what they were like originaly. I'd like to take my 32 5W and basically restore the body sheet metal and body mechanicals to original before rodding the rest of it. Knowing proper sheet metal repair and panel replacement of this old tin, wood replacement as well as how to install the roof insert and basic interior are just a few of the things that I'd like to learn. Thanks.
Sounds like you need a few different books - some on the '32 & some on body & mechanical work. Start here for a good look at the '32. http://www.amazon.com/Deuce-75-Years-32-Ford/dp/1932494138 JH
Thanks JH, I'll look into getting that one if you think it's worth while. For the most part I'm okay with most body, paint and mechanical issues. Where I think I'll have issues is with things that are specific to the 32. An example is the common sheet metal cracking in the body line below the rear quarter windows. I would normaly just weld them up but I was told that if I do that it will just crack again and that I should make new pieces and weld them in. I don't know if this is 32 specific(design of the body line) or just because of the type of metal they used back then but this is the kind of thing that I'm talking about. I guess I could just ask every time I have a question but I thought it would be better to read up on the basics of "doing" a 32 first so that I can at least ask inteligent questions.
That is a common crack. The others are the crown beads of the fenders. The best reference book is the new two volumn set from The Early V8 Club. Amazing amount of info. Nothing else is close. I will try to attach a link later. I sure would not add a piece just because it is cracked.I would remove interior parts untill I could weld it from inside. Should be an easy weld and the heat will normalize the area. I would gas weld. https://www.earlyfordv8.org/store-product-item.cfm?id=15&pid=2
This is my favorite but I haven't kept up with all the new publications. I see that it is now available again but keep your eyes on Ebay.
If you are "doing" a '32 (is this anything like "doing" the lady next door?) I think that Dave Rehor's book and "The V8 Affair" would both be a waste of money. Be sure to look through them before you spend the money. If you intend to restore a '32 (or make a good resto-rod) then Dave Rehor's book is an absolute must. I was very UNIMPRESSED with the book "The V8 Affair". Charlie Stephens
The Jalopy Journal
