Hi, I was looking for some information on what to use for a frame for my 46. I want to have a more modern suspension and brakes as well as a v8, most likely 302 or 351. I have been looking around but can't find a lot of info on it just people using s10 frames. I'd rather use a full size Ford f150/f250 frame. Is this possible?

 

The full size Ford f150/f250 frame is a lot wider and longer than the '46 frame.

Frame Chassis 1942 1943 1944 1945 1946 1947 Ford truck |

 

I know exactly the frame to use, the one Ford assembled the truck with in 1946.
Seriously, unless you make one from scratch, or for an aftermarket frame like above, the parts just don't line up. Even if you want independent suspension, modern V8, automatic, etc, etc, you are time and money ahead modifying the factory frame. Although I have to ask, why start with an old truck if what you really want is a modern truck?

 

It's just that the frame is crazy heavy,parts are harder to find, and I want 4x4. I know I could change the rear end and save some weight but wheels won't match front to back, it is dual wheel and a two speed rear end. I'm talking about using 1970s through 86 frame. I measured an 86 bronco frame and it looks like it will work. I am no expert on putting things like this together nor do I want show quality I just wanna try make something cool out of it. I want the 46 look....not 80s look

 

Wasn't there a thread a while back where the guy used an Explorer frame under a 46 1/2 ton truck? Came out really nice as I recall. I think it was the only successful swap I've ever seen. Seems like people start a project like this and then run out of time, patience, or money. Heck, I'm just trying to get my truck put back together using the original parts and it's a challenge.

 

Yeah I hear you, the deal is too that the truck has no motor and basically anything on the frame needs attention, just didn't know if there was something out there that wouldn't be too crazy you know.

 

Frame swaps do take a lot of planning and measuring, but it can be done. Nothing wrong with wanting a vintage look with more modern driveability. I can't tell you what frame would work. But I'm guessing you're probably not using the original bed, so wheelbase isn't as big of an issue than if you had a bed. Just plan, take your time and it can be done. And if you find a frame that works, please share your project progress here. Some of us guys would love to see a project like this, especially if you're going 4x4.

 

Look into P30 step van & motorhome chassis. They come into 1, 1.5 & 2 ton flavors and various Wheelbase's. I'm using one from a motorhome for the bus that I am rebuilding.

 

I have spent a lot of time on the explorer forums, before I sold my explorer. There was a couple of 1951 trucks I have seen put on the explorer frame. This seemed like a pretty simple way to "mess up a truck" but looked good in the end for a rat rod with rusted out body etc... they did the best they could with using the explorer gages in the 51 cab. Hey they had a decent looking driving truck for not much money.
Look in the explorer forums for the build thread.

 

For what it's worth, I'm putting a mid 80's 3/4 ton chevy truck suspension and running gear in my ton an a half. Dimensionally the front chevy K member (??) is real close to the Ford frame rails.

 

9 out of 10 attempted frame swaps never get finished and 10 years down the road most of them get sold off to someone for parts. There is a member here who did a 40-41 1/2 ton on an Exploder frame and it turned out real nice.

 

I'll add a couple thumbs up on that explorer swap. Both rigs are 114" wb. He did tons of cutting on the body and the wiring was far beyond anything I could ever comprehend. It came out beautifully. Maybe someone can find the thread. edit: Does the ranger pu share the same platform as the exploder?

 

I had some free time and looked for it yesterday, the one I was thinking of, the photos were no longer available. We all want pictures .
Anyways I found another with a 1956 ford, this thing is sharp. It shows a lot of the process to give a little bit of an idea.

1956 F100 Explorer Chassis Swap | Ford Explorer and Ford Ranger Forums - Serious Explorations

What bothers me, is the width of the frame. If you look at a photo they list, the 56 cab looks like it was made for that frame.
The 46 is several inches narrower then a 56 truck. I would be curious if is a issue.

I want my trucks old and slow and a lil smoky is just fine, I sure would not kick this one out of my barn.

 

I don't like the modern dash in it though.
To me, part of the charm of old trucks is the solid axle and how it rides and handles. Can't blame anyone for wanting better brakes

 

I would look at 73-91 Chevy Blazer or 73-87 Chevy truck. If my memory is correct they all had a 34" frame width which I believe is pretty close to the Ford frame width.

If you want to stick with ford running gear the 77 and down Ford F250 4x4 or "Highboy" trucks with a divorced t-case had a 34" frame width also.