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Apr 8, 2014 | 06:19 PM

ceming

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Helpful info please

I am looking at a '96/'97 f-250 with a gas engine. The cab looks good enough to save. I go tomorrow to inspect some more. When I first looked at it I was concerned about the frame looking so rusty. The truck has been sitting for over 2 years!! I was wondering if the frame of a 2003 might fit. Found one that was rolled over. Thanks for info and education.

Apr 8, 2014 | 08:11 PM

1977cutcher

Mountain Pass

Joined: Mar 2014

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I hope the truck is free. There is a reason it has been sitting for 2 years and the mice have moved in and remolded the wiring since then I am sure. A frame swap is a major undertaking.

Apr 8, 2014 | 08:42 PM

Lx460

Senior User

Joined: Jul 2013

Posts: 355

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From: Spring Hill, FL

Unless it's free and you really want a project, I'd move on to something else. A 99+ frame is not a direct bolt on. It may be able to be done but how much time, money, effort, and know-how do you have to put into it?

Apr 8, 2014 | 08:48 PM

ceming

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I am wishing for that. I think best I will do is 800 to 1000. It's a gasser that I will be converting. At best I am hoping to make it my own with about 5-6000 put into it. After buying and selling parts and other stuff!

Apr 9, 2014 | 06:10 AM

redford

FTE Leadership Emeritus

Joined: Sep 2000

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From: Stephensville WI

But to answer your original question, a 2003 frame will not "fit" a 96/97 truck. Given enough cutting and welding it will work, but it is not a bolt on project.

Apr 9, 2014 | 06:44 AM

ceming

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Thank you so much for this info. I am a pretty good parts changer/weekend mechanic. After all of my VW fixing, repairing, and/or upgrading I am pretty handy! When I inspect the truck today I will have a better "eye". It's going to be an off the frame build so a good cleaning and Por-15 will be the starting point.