This is a question for the 5.0/302 swappers out there. Are most of you removing the original trans crossmember from these trucks? I realize what people are doing will vary with engine mount style, pan differences, etc. I am talking about the one that is under the front of the cab with side mounts for the trans. I am trying to see what most people are doing.
I have taken the frame down to be blasted next week and I want to remove it if It may not be used. It looks like it adds a lot of strength but it also looks like it might be in the way of the engine/trans. I would just mock everything up but I don't have my engine and trans yet.
For additional information I am going with an EFI 5.0 and a 4R70W electronic transmission. I will use whatever oil pan that works the best. I will be using the solid front axle with lowering springs.

 

took mine out and got one from mid-fifty for a stick shift.

 

Let me bump this back up for you.

 

They dont serve any purpose if swapping a late model motor package. A tranny crossmember from the 65 thru 79 F-series should be correct width and nearly a direct bolt in. I am saying this because the rear frame half on my 65 stepside came from a donor 54 F-100.

 

I will of course will be replacing it with a trans crossmember for the trans I will be using. It just appears like this is a pretty structural member of the frame, like it is not just to mount the trans.