Upgrade frame question

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Jan 28, 2011 | 04:18 PM

CWPottenger

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Upgrade frame question

I have a '63 F100 single cab stepside shortbed.

I would like to put it on a modern f150 frame. wondering if anyone knows which year and model would swap under with the least amount of mods....

Jan 28, 2011 | 04:33 PM

garbz2

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From: Glendale Arizona

Nothing modern is even close.

Check with your DMV if a frame swap is even legal.

Garbz

Jan 28, 2011 | 04:58 PM

429 f-100

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Joined: Nov 2010

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From: oriental NC.

Quote:

Originally Posted by CWPottenger

I have a '63 F100 single cab stepside shortbed.

I would like to put it on a modern f150 frame. wondering if anyone knows which year and model would swap under with the least amount of mods....

fat man fabrications makes a killer replacement frame for these trucks full box rails with coil spring / coil over/ or air bags. mustang 11 steering and what ever kind of rear set up you could want just cost $$$

Jan 28, 2011 | 10:54 PM

William

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From: Sun River St. George

I'd consider a 79 F100. You will need considerable fabrication skills, a well thought out plan, a two car garage and a fat wallet. After that these swaps are common. My next project will be a 61 uni long on a F100 frame using the 79 floor pan and a cowl from a 66 F100. I have a frame guy local and he will make it fit. The one in shop at the moment is a F250 78 super cab frame shortened 40 inches and set at 114 inch wheelbase with F100 running gear and 66 sheetmetal. 466 with a C6 of course and AC, PDB, Power steering and 100% Ford parts. Like Garbz said check with the local DMV about your states requirements.

Jan 28, 2011 | 11:45 PM

37 Ford guy

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From: Santa Monica, CA

Personally, I think it would be much easier to modify/upgrade your existing frame with modern components than to swap it the body onto a newer frame. There are several threads showing the installation of Crown Vic IFS, Jag IFS, Mustang II IFS and several rear end options, too that would make the truck ride & perform as nice as any late model chassis swap. One company even offers kits to put corvette suspension components on you existing frame. Plus you wouldn't have all the potential DMV hassle to deal with. JMHO......

Jan 29, 2011 | 11:42 PM

CWPottenger

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No DMV hassles where I am ... ZERO inspections ever... Well mine is 4 wheel drum, King pin staight axle, etc... all the stuff driving on the street at 60mph plus would not be safe for.... Modern chassis all factory parts cheap to do... Fab work is the easy part... I know I can buy all tons of aftermarket swaps and stuff, but that adds up fast and some parts then always have to be ordered from vendor not a local parts store run.

My question was more if anyone knew which frame was the closest in wheelbase, width, etc. Like I said the fab work is easy part, just I can't find specs on different year chassis's I'm looking for..

Jan 30, 2011 | 08:22 AM

dman2008

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From: Southern AB

I would say 73 to 79 shortbed would be your best, I put my 64 on a 75 f150 frame and the only real challenge is getting the box to sit properly but with the flareside you can modify it way easier. Trying searching frame swap on the forum you should get lots of great info.

D