Im Mike, new to this forum.

I purchased a 1958 F100 a couple years ago and slowly been working on all the body work. I am planning on doing a full frame off with my own custom touch. I already have a full IFS kit and 4 link for the rear. Went to start installation and noticed the frame is off 1/2"

I have a good frame guy but we need the specs on the frame to straighten it before I weld anything in.

Please help with any info available.

Thanks Mike

 

Do you mean a 1/2" out of square when doing a diagonal measurement ????

The frames are just riveted construction and I doubt you will even need a frame guy. You will have to remove a lot of cross members so you will have no trouble striating anything you need to as you weld in your 4 link and IFS.

The frames are basically 34" wide, strait with a slight kick up in the rear. I think 2"

Mine was twisted and out of square. I did everything with a come-along, levels, plumb bob, t-square,tape measures, and a cheap laser level.

I took some bolts and cut a slot in them (so I could hook a tape on myself) and screwed them in to various locations and used them to pull a bunch of diagonals.

Here is the back of my truck to show you where I put the bolts but I did the same thing all over the frame



I made sure I took a step drill to make sure the holes were all round and the bolts fit tight.

 

Yes 1/2" out of square with front to back. I had 3/16" out in the back half and noticed and bent right where the front cross member would go. I was reading that I can be up to 3/16 off for the entire length.

The front cross member under the radiator is in and then the next one is behind that cab.

How close did you get yours when you were done?

 

So if I understand you. You have 1/2" front to back diagonally??

That is only 1/4" out of square. I have always gone by anything under 1/4 is fine on stuff this old. Especially with riveted construction. these trucks were built to work not play so the frames were designed to flex quite a bit. If you are trying to get to 3/16" your only a 1/16 out.

I got mine perfect but I also had almost all my cross members out.

The main thing is to take your time and get your IFS square with you rear end. With the 4 link you will be able to get a 4 wheel alignment and make up for minor discrepancies.

Remember most cars today have to get 4 wheel alignments to make sure the front and rear wheels are square with each other.

The other thing I wanted to bring up is don't use the end of the front or rear of the frame. Find some holes and put bolts in them or measure from them. The ends of frames are usually not cut square or all jacked up from years of people trying to put bumpers on, making tow hitches ,or driving in to or backing into stuff.

Take a look at my build thread let me know if I can be of any more help

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/1...100-build.html

 

Thank you. That looks like a couple great builds. Your post will help me out a lot. Good luck with future trucks.