With all the threads written about Split rims and the wealth of information shared here at FTE, this is the first time I read the above info. I have often wondered why they ever made them in the first place. Now it makes sense!

You learn something everyday! Thanks posting that Wilson!

 

You're welcome! Thank you, Abe, for your kind words. -Wilson

 

btw, does this truck have a straight frame over the rear axle or is it arched to allow a recess for the axle? if it were straight than it would be much simpler to drill some holes and move the axle forward and cut the remaining frame after the axle in order to make it fit a normal box???? I would check but its waist deep in a snow bank right now

 

anyone wanna take a run at that straight frame question?

 

can someone point me to the place or person who best knows about these trucks- especially the frame geometry on this old girl? Thanks guys

 

I have a '49 but I am pretty sure there is a radius, arch, or curve(however you want to define it) for the rear axle. not much but still there.
I don't know your abilities, but some have shortened the frame to fit the F1/F100 wheelbase.
This will give you an idea, but keep in mind...this pic is '49-'50ish and not '53-'56

 

Here's the factory diagram from the Salesman's Handbook for the F-350 Express. It doesn't show very well the frame as it extends over the rear axle. In the text, however, is written the following. "Side members for F-100, F-250, and P-350 Parcel Delivery have a kick-up over the rear axle to provide a low loading height". Therefore, no kick-up on the F-350s.

Not that anybody should care what I think, but to me it's a crime to butcher that truck up. Stu

 

thanks for the insight guys, that is what i want to know.

 

I went by a week ago and the truck is still up for grabs- I rolled my volkswagen jetta a month ago and no need to settle the $$$ amounts with insurance to free up the cash for the purchase. The latest I know is that he has a complete 1 ton frame that goes with the truck- so that will help in making upgrade plans. The frame is still under snow right now. Is it possible to moderize the fron brakes on this truck? I would like to airbag the truck so than I think that the straight axle would be good for that. I m not sold on the cummins 5.9 turbo diesel yet but that is where I would like to end up. I believe with the added weight of that engine I would need to amp up the braking power also.

I found this picture of a 1956 ford with a turbo diesel cummins- thats how I wanna role- just in flat black and with a box lol- I will post that pic into my profile pics

Thanks for the input