We're trying to locate the center for the rear axle and front spindles on a bare 51 F1 frame. We're looking for some measurements from some reference points (cab mount, spring mount, cross member rivet holes, end of frame, etc.) on the frame.

We're installing the Flatout Engineering C4 kits. The instructions for the front kit say to mark the center line before removing the stock suspension. The rear says to mark the stock axle center before removing the stock suspension, but also says it should be 36.5" forward measured from the rear of the frame rail.

Our problem is the frame we're working with was abused by a previous owner. The stock Ford suspension mounts were removed and a mid-80's gm 4x4 suspension was welded on the frame. The gm suspension looked like a butcher job and we didn't trust it's location.

We removed the gm stuff and sandblasted the frame. We have a bare frame and we're trying to find some measurements to help us locate the suspension centers. We'd like to get measurements from a few different reference points to double, or triple, check our location.

We read through the alternative front suspension tech articles and saw one location reference. From the second article: “The cross member (axle) center line is set by measuring 19-3/4" from the center of the front shackle hole in the frame (Heidt's kit...others may vary).”

This gives us one measurement for the front and one for the rear. We'd love to get at least one more for each. Any help with other measurements, links to frame specifications posted online, or tips on books with specs will be greatly appreciated.

Any comments or suggestions regarding installing the Flatout kits will also be appreciated. Thanks, 57phil.

 

here's a start, hope it helps.

Or try this link.

https://www.ford-trucks.com/forums/6...de-height.html

 

Thanks Havi. This is a lot of great information. Definitely enough to get us off the computer and back out in the shop. 57phil.

 

Phil
Send me an e-mail at a4tl8ford@adelphia.net.

I have another one that will help.