Need Help, bought my first 55 Ford Truck after owning Fords my whole life except for the Chevy truck that I walked the axles out from under back when I was 19. Long and short of it is that the radiator cross member support has been cut out, and I need help with dimensions or a source where I can get one. Truck currently has a V-8 out of a Mustang HO, but the old radiator gave up the ghost, and when I went to replace it with a new one, and a replacement radiator support, I discovered the cross member frame issue. So any ideas would be greatly appreciated, mostly if I can't find the cross member, then some sketches and dimensions would be perfect. Not shy about tackeling some cutting, grinding and welding to make it right.
Michael F. "BEAR" Cooper
jaxcoopers@bellsouth.net

Hope I did this right.

 

The Ford truck parts catalog pic is vague, so here are the first two cross members.

TAAA-5020-A .. Frame Crossmember #1 / 1953/56 F100/250.

TAAA-5025-B .. Frame Crossmember #2 / 1953/56 F100/250.

No Ford Dealer or obsolete parts vendor has any. There is no listing for either in Carpenters 1948/56 repro parts catalog.

It's possible that someone else repro's it, but who, I dunno.

 

MidFifty sells one

RADIATOR SADDLE, 54-56 Reproduction . . .2331-5456 . .$169.95 ea.

or are u talking about the front chassis crossmember? I bought one last year from a guy that was putting a chevy clip on his f100.

Sam

 

Sorry to take so long to get back with you. Here is a link to pictures I just took:
Front Crossmember pictures by harrier1351 - Photobucket

Here are some pictures with measurements:




If you need anything else, just let me know....well except for the crossmember. Digital cameras are so nice, you can take tons of pictures for no cost.

 

I sent you an email about this

 

Get a stock one from someone who has an extra (Bigwin?). The entire front clip (sheetmetal) is supported and aligned by this crossmember and radiator support horseshoe, if it's not right then nothing will fit right.

 

Exactly what he said. The entire front end integrity is dependent on that cross member.

 

I got them! and more than one! LOL!

 

Where would we be without all you hoarders! You da man!

 

In the last 3 weeks I have brought home three 55's and today a 56!

They are some real prizes for sure! I was worried some of the fenders might blow off the rusty 56 while towing it home today!

 

Thanks so much for the info on the part numbers, you are right the manual I have is pretty vague on the number idents. Thanks for the post.

 

The measurements are great, I may need some more measuring from you to fine tune where I need to adjust angles and setbacks. But these printed out great, yuo are a great help.

 

So Bigwin how do I get hold of you and try to talk you into helping me set this truck right. I knew everything lined up on that member, and it explained why nothing on the front was setting right. If you don't mind could you give me a call, or e-mail me directly, either one. Wife is really getting pissed because we bought the truck and she hasn't even had a chance to drive it yet, adn this is the major roadbloack from getting it back on the road.
Michael F. "BEAR" Cooper
jaxcoopers@bellsouth.net
904-509-0690 Cell
Located in Jacksonville, FL by way of from Kentucky.

 

I am really glad I tripped across this site. As soon as I am able to get a nicer day than what we have been having I will get out and take some pictures of Lil Red and get them posted so everyone can see what I am working on. Thanks for all the help and keep it coming. I like everyones attitude, and Bigwin is right, some trucks must die for others to live. I just plan on making mine one of those that should live. I am still really currious what was the motivating factor to someone cutting out such an important piece of the frame.

 

Welcome to the madness Flybear. On a personal note, I restored many old VWs and some Fords before I found this forum. Since finding this group of great guys and gals. my restoration life has been much easier, more fulfilling and downright blessed. Some of the answers I have received from members of this group have saved countless hours and many dollars. I am sure you will find your travels here to be in the same vein. Share your pics, share your problems and before you know it, you will have a great truck to show for it. Good luck!