I got over excited when I came across a 52 F5 for sale. I have always wanted an old truck but had not given it much thought because I could never find or afford anything I would consider starting. So like more than one of you I am sure, I ended up purchasing it, not thinking that there is a lot more TRUCK there than I bargained for. The cab is straight and all the trim is there. All the *****, handles....it has not been robbed other than the seat. There is no engine and tranny but I already have a 347 stroker and C4 that will probably end up in it. I am torn on direction right now so it is just sitting. I want to decide on a direction to go before I do a thing. I wanted a F1 and slam it for a street rod. I know it is a major job going that direction because I do not have an F1. So that being the case I see a lot of really cool options for keeping it bigger. I do like the low rider look so I thought I would start here for ideas. I was considering a Crown Vic for a front end swap, 8.8 with disc in rear and possible motor/tranny swap. Keep it stock but updated. The question I have about that idea, is the frame width in the front the same? I have even considered building a new frame and start from scratch. Then just drop the cab on it, go flat bed or find a bed. Then the other side of my brain thinks that I should just drop a motor in it and leave it a truck. That comes with the old brake system, stiff/no suspension and 20" wheels. Rat Rod it or paint it retro... So it sits while I consider options. It is just going to be a cruiser for fun. not a daily driver and a tow rig for my racecar at most. Then again.....trick toy hauler? I only have $600 into it so throw some suggestions out there.

 

This is what I just bought.

 

This is where my heart keeps going. But with no bed and bigger wheel openings on an F5, I am not sure how it would look.

 

The biggest problem you will have with the bigger F5 is finding any wheels that work with the 5 on 8" bolt pattern. The originals (which it looks like you might have, but hard to tell from the picture) are referred to as "Widdowmakers" and would need replacing.
That said I've seen some big trucks done with that style, but it gets a bit creative when it comes to the bed area.
put your location in your profile so we can see where you are and there might be someone near by.

 

Based on what you're saying your end goal is, I'd suggest using the F5 for parts and find an F1 to build in the direction you desire. The big trucks make great donors but due to their size and weight, they're difficult and not overly desirable for making into a hot rod. I see you're close to me and I have a project that might fit your bill. PM me for details.

 

I agree with Wayne.

If you want an F1, your F5 cab is the same. The front clip is also the same, except for the fenders. Also, your frame is double walled, unlike the F1, and has a very different shape.

But the bigger fenders would not look right on an F1, so you'd need to get F1 fenders and a bed.

And it may well be a 52, but that's a 51 hood on it.

 

Just acquired an F1 and between the two there should be enough pieces to get going on this. The F1 is missing all the little stuff the other one has. I am not worried about staying with a specific year. If the parts fit and look close enough I am alright with it. I seem to be on the right site so I have a lot of questions. I want clean and simple. I am pulling the F1's frame into the shop and starting to clean it up. Deciding on the front My experience is an 88F-150 4x4, 300I6/5spd. and a Foxbody, 347 stroker/9" back half, 11 second toy. This is the first older truck.

 

 

And I guess I have completely forgotten my manners.

Welcome to FTE!

 

Welcome to the forum. We have a bit in common. I also have a drag Mustang. Mine is a 94 GT 347 combo. My mud vehicle is a lifted Cherokee, but I don't really do any offroad unless it is required to get to a good fly fishing spot.

I like your F1 vision. That's on my short list of future projects.

 

Thanks for the welcome. I was searching the forum and see a wealth of knowledge and willingness to share it. I appreciate this because I know it comes from spending time, money and usually both to get it. I have spent a great deal over the years learning what not to do. Asking first and planning something is always a lot more productive. I am picking up the F5 in the morning and the F1 soon. I will assess the condition and start the cleaning process. I will start with the F1 frame and get it cleaned up and painted.

 

Always...always.....always wear your seatbelt.

fatfenders, the mud truck is no longer. It was lost in a head on.

 

Hey Explorer,
Everybody ok? We have several members up in Oregon
if you want to look at other's trucks up close.

So... On the whole vision thing.. Are you going for a
lowered hotrod patina look? You'll need to do some serious suspension surgery to get it lower. We used a salvage yard Explorer 8.8 in. axle
with flipped springs to get the back down. The front axle is the tricky one. We went after market Mustang II IFS from No Limit Engineering -
pricey at $2,600. Another route is Heidt's. If you are into salvage there is a Jag front end solution that is popular while other's go with a Crown
Vic but it's too wide & needs to be cut & re-welded.

Good luck over there - stay safe.

Ben in Austin
1950 F1

 

I like the look of one slammed but I am reconsidering that due to the drivability. I am going to make it as user friendly as possible so it can be more of a daily driver for me. I have a garage baby already and am thinking I might go ahead and throw some paint on it. Possibly a flat black for the rod look with some nice wheels.

https://www.bing.com/images/search?q...5o0&ajaxhist=0

 

Hey Explorer,
Here is our 1950 F1 with the updated suspension to help with your vision.
From stock I'd say it's 3 to 4 inches lower.

Ben in Austin
1950 F1