I've been on the forum awhile but have finally decided to start posting pictures of my latest build. I'm starting with a 1974 F100 Ranger XLT short bed, automatic transmission, with a 302. Plans are to repair all the rust, paint the frame and truck, install a Crown Vic front suspension, install a Thunderbird IRS rear suspension/differential, and install a EFI 5.0 with automatic overdrive transmission.

 

We started by dissembling the truck and removing the drive train.

 

Next we removed the front suspension. It did not come off easily. Mocked up the Crown Vic suspension. Welded it all in and boxed in the front of the frame for some added strength. Also fabricated the engine mounts using the original mounts.

 

Looks like an awesome project! I'm looking forward to seeing the suspension installs! Did you weld a nut to the bottom of the motor mount to bolt it in?

 

Removed the rear axle, leaf springs and associated hardware. I purchased the IRS installation kit from team321.com. I have to say that Dave from team321 is very knowledgeable and answered all my questions. The IRS kit took a little longer to install than expected but we measured several times before cutting and welding. We didn't want to mess this up.





































Found a sweet deal on some 2014 mustang wheels and tires. Put it on the ground to see what my new stance was going to look like.

 

I haven't yet. May not need to as the side of the mount is open and could just bolt it down.

 

Next step is to disassemble the frame. Have it blasted, primed, and painted.

We have started some of the body work on the bed. I'll post some pictures of it in the next coming days.

 

Nice!! Looking forward to following thus build.

 

Me too, nice truck! One question. What year thunderbirds came with the IRS? Look forward to seeing some more pics of your progress!

 

nice build, looks great so far.

 

1989-1997 Thunderbird, Cougar, and 1993-1997 Lincoln Mark VIII

Steve S.
To many to list.

 

I love the smell of new project... What is the piece of square tube with the airbag on the End?

 

1989-1997 Thunderbirds. I used one out of a 1996. If you are planning on doing the swap some of the Thunderbirds did not come with disc brakes. You can also use an IRS out of 1993-1998 Lincoln Mark VIII. I didn't go that route because they use air bags and I wanted to use shocks.

 

That's not an airbag but the front mount for the IRS subframe.

 

We have started some of the body work on the bed which is where the majority of the rust is located. Both of the rear lower sections will have to be replaced. The bed floor isn't in great shape either but I think we can patch it. PO screwed a piece of plywood to the floor of the bed which is the cause of the majority of the rust. There are a couple other spots we will have to create patch panels for. I'm also removing the badges, lower moldings, and stake holes.