Before I post, not trying to start a big debate on which year/style is better, just trying to get some honest opinions. Quick version: I got (for free) a '51 F1 several years back which has a good title now in my name (very important). I've been working on it which has been documented on a separate thread and just this week have the new engine and trans in place (302/4r70w). The original frame ended up being good but the cab was toast as a tree had fell on it. At the time I was searching and found a 48 model cab which was in pretty good shape so I picked it up and completed the metal work and primed it. Now that I'm about to start mocking up the body this mismatch has been bothering me more now than it did when I first started especially with all of the information I have learned from this site.

Personally I like the small back glass better, but how bad is it being two different styles combined? I'm not even sure how many people would even notice but now that I know about these trucks it would take me (and most everyone on here) a split second. Yes I know it's my truck and I should do what I want, however, at cruise nights I really don't want to hear a lot of negativity if it will be viewed as such?

So my options look like:
1. Use the 48 cab with the 51 front as planned
2. Graft a large back window section from a 51 into the cab (a friend has this piece and is in great shape but I would still have the different dash)
3. Use a 48-50 front end (I like both styles equally) but then the title would be real fun explaining if I was to ever sale it. Not planning on it but you never know.
4. Find a 51-52 cab which at this point is my least favored option since I put the time into the other cab

Thanks for any advice and opinions. I have learned a lot on here which is the only reason I'm asking this question.
Matt

 

If you prefer the small back window and you want to keep the cab you've worked so hard on, stick with your plan A and tell anyone that gives you grief to kya.

The most important thing is you get to have fun with it, no matter what you build. You could always put a 51-52 dash in it and really give the guys something to ponder.

 

Stick with what you have . This is a build , not a # match restore ...
Have fun , build what you want .

 

You could put the '51 dash in the earlier cab as 52 Merc says and tell everyone that it is an early '51.

 

Hmm, I really like the idea of grafting in a 51 dash. Wonder if those can be found rather cheaply...

 

Are you going to drive and enjoy the truck, or show it at pebble beach?

 

I agree with the others. Stick with your plan.

Is it really that different than all the guys that have put a '56 grille in a '53-'55, just because they are reproduced/more readily available?

 

Good point...... 90 percent driving 10 percent local events.

 

I say keep going with what you have. Pay no attention to naysayers.

ps, I may have the 51-52 dash piece you need if you are serious about that

 

I have the same such beast. My f1 is a 1950 but it has a 1951 front clip. I like the details of the stake pockets and bedsides of a 48-50. I like the 51-52 front clip so it worked out well!

 

Unless the 10% includes Concours Judging, I say go for the fun of it.

 

Most definitely not lol

 

Tell all the naysayers it's a rare '50 1/2 model.

I say stay with your original plan. Your new headliner kit will fit right without having to cut out for the larger rear window.

 

Thank you everyone for the replies...

 

Thanks, can you pm me the details on the piece condition and price please?