Have a '41 Ford COE cab and am considering using a '96-'02 GM van ch***is because the steering box is forward of the axle and straight up and down. I will possible have to narrow it anywhere from 4" to 8" but other than that can anyone see any downside to this style ch***is? The alternative is the popular '73-'87 GM pickup ch***is but that requires major work to get the steering sorted out.
Sounds like a plan G Man. Narrow it 4-8"? What's the track on that thing? I could lose about 3" from my 2002 Dodge 1500 4x4 front track but will probably just widen the fenders 1.5" each.
The issue with widening the fenders is having the doors clear when they open. I know guys have done it but you have to plan it carefully. A guy in this neck of the woods used a Suburban ch***is and narrowed it 4". If you haven't mounted the body, narrowing the ch***is is probably easier than widening two fenders.
yeah, I think I have it figured out. The hinges need to extend something like 1/2 or 3/4.. I wrote it down somewhere. But., you're right... it sounds easy but it ain't.. Got pics of your cab?
Can't figure how to post pics but click this link and it'll open an album. As you see it is as I bought it at an auction for $2250.. I got the flathead running and sold the ch***is/drivetrain to a guy in Florida. The cab is all there, doghouse, gauges, wire harness windows, etc.. https://flic.kr/s/aHskXwbo9g
The cab looks awesome.. You're missing the standard Swiss Cheese metal! I was thinking about your narrowing idea. Won't that mean shortening axles, sway bars, steering rack or components, etc??
I really like the way Dough Boy widened his fenders . As far as narrowing the frame , I have always thought it easier to find a ch***is as close to what I need and change small components like steering or brakes . It's all work and fun . All this from a guy that takes four or five years to finish one . Blue
"I was thinking about your narrowing idea. Won't that mean shortening axles, sway bars, steering rack or components, etc??" The steering is standard (non r&p) so the center link gets cut and carefully welded. Sway bar is easily solved with an aftermarket unit. Narrowing the rear axle isn't an issue since its 3" narrower than the front to begin with. You have the option to move the spring perches on the axle or space the mounts on the frame - or build a new rear suspension and bag it.
I used a 1982 Chevrolet C20. I left the steering box in its original place,i used an astro van lower steering linkage¿? And made my own steering column. I dont have any binding on the steering linkage and if i wanted,i could move the lower steering column hole towards the seat to lessen the angle on the linkage. Btw,the stock ford wheels and stock chevy wheels tuck nicely under the fenders and you can bag and find 2.5" lowering spindles for the c20. As well as cutting springs or pancake the crossmember. Im sure the c20 van is closer to my c20 truck suspension.
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