Hi

I have been doing a lot of research int aftermarket frames for a '56 F100. The most reasonably priced solution I have found is the Progressive Automotive FTG2 Builder frames @ $2,650.00. (Progressive Automotive, 1953 ford truck chassis, 1954 ford truck chassis, 1955 ford truck chassis, 1956 ford truck chassis, 1953 ford truck frame, 1954 ford truck frame, 1955 ford truck frame, 1956 ford truck frame). My question is, what is the general experience here relating to Progressive Automotive products, and secondly has anyone used this specific frame and could they share their experience, as well as could you guys have a look at the online info and highlight any potential issue that I would face if I used this frame. Thanks in advance
Ian

 

I'm not anywhere near an expert and I haven't used anything like this, but wouldn't it be really difficult to run wires and brake lines with that fully boxed frame?

It bugs me that Ford motor and transmission mounts are an additional cost for a Ford frame.....

 

Is there a particular reason why you want an aftermarket frame as opposed to an OEM frame?

From what I can gather from their website, this model frame comes with no suspension mountings and basically just gives you a tubular center crossmember and a front/rear crossmember for the radiator and rear shocks. Leaves a lot to be desired for my money.

 

Just checked your profile and it says you have a 49 F-1 so why are you interested in a 56 frame? If there is nothing seriously wrong with your original frame I'd stick to it and pickup aftermarket upgrades if that is what you're after.

 

I am looking t build a 50's truck, I live in Ireland where we don't have any. I liked the '49 shape and initially wanted one, but have been looking at at the whole range and fallen for the '56. I will be needing to make it RHD as I will be returning home to South Africa in the next couple of years. I just returned from a month in the US and while I was there I found myself in Tennessee and poped in to Bebops to have a look at their '56 cab. They can modify the dash for RHD and if I take a aftermarket frame I can sort the whole RHD thing right from the start.

 

I think that you're on the right track with your plan. I've not had any experience with Progressive but it looks like a good product.
If you're going to use independent front suspension (IFS) and/or independent rear suspension (IRS) a boxed, x-membered frame is the way to go. The original's were made to flex and worked great with solid axles but are not built for IFS without at least some boxing. A number of years ago I built mine with a Camaro IFS clip and boxed the remainder of it, adding an X type center bracing. I am still enjoying the fruits of that labor but it eventually cost more than what you're looking at.

Steve

 

why dont use a original cab
And built it to rhd the cab is from metal so you can cut the left side and wel it on the rightside
Maybe its because i only like metal truck no tupperware for me