Frame swap

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Sep 8, 2016 | 06:19 PM

Cowboy_61884

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Frame swap

Hello Everyone
I am looking for information. I've read somewhere that a Frame and drive train (including Axels...Etc) from a 1997-2001 Explorer would be a near great and "easy" fit for a 1955 F-100
Is that fact .or is there another option that's better. All I'm looking for is to make it a Daily driver. I would go with an explorer that had a V-8..maybe with an AWD
Thanks in advance for any information,
Gil

Sep 8, 2016 | 06:46 PM

drptop70ss

Cargo Master

Joined: Oct 2013

Posts: 2,580

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From: in a barn

I have done frame swaps, IMO it is much easier to upgrade the stock frame with a more modern suspension.
If you do decide to do it find something to use with the correct front track width so it doesn't look silly when completed.
"easy" depends on your skill level and available tools.

Sep 8, 2016 | 07:13 PM

CharlieLed

Lead Driver

Joined: Aug 2006

Posts: 8,094

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From: Brentwood, TN

I wish I had a nickel for every first post asking about frame swaps...Gil, if your current frame is structurally sound then save yourself a lot of headaches and $$$ and use it as a basis for your build. Either that or spend some big $$$ and buy an Art Morrison or TCI chassis. The 8.8 rearend from that Explorer is a good rearend if it comes from a 5.0L XLT...3:73 gears, 31 spine axles, trak-loc, and disk brakes...keep the engine/trans and rearend and scrap the reat.

Sep 8, 2016 | 07:30 PM

Cowboy_61884

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That's what I needed...Thank you Drptop and Charlie...the info is appreciated
Gil

Sep 8, 2016 | 08:54 PM

thepitshop

Laughing Gas

Joined: Jun 2006

Posts: 1,159

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From: manitoba

Hey Gil if you have a decent frame I would go Charlies way,if you have a low budget,welding and some fab skills then look into frame swapping, get a game plan and lots of measuring,there not too hard to do.

Sep 8, 2016 | 10:06 PM

drptop70ss

Cargo Master

Joined: Oct 2013

Posts: 2,580

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From: in a barn

Quote:

Originally Posted by thepitshop

No need to be high budget when upgrading the stock frame, I have maybe $1000 in each of my chassis after installing a jag IFS, rebuilding it, and upgrading the rear to modern pickup spring mounts / springs / and 10 bolt GM rears. It really is much easier than dealing with all of the little things that need fabrication and modifying when doing a frame swap. Keeping the stock frame keeps all of the cab, nose, and bed mounts intact and makes the work go that much quicker.

Sep 9, 2016 | 04:07 PM

Cowboy_61884

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Thanks Everybody....Right now I'm collecting good info on the Easiest way , the Fastest way , the Cheapest way.....generally the BEST way I learned the best way is [B]Always [B]Ask the wisest and Experienced
Gil

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Sep 11, 2016 | 01:03 PM

petemcl

Logistics Pro

Joined: Nov 2011

Posts: 4,685

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From: Northville, MI

Quote:

Originally Posted by Cowboy_61884

You need to first decide how you are going to use your truck. Then assess the condition of the parts that are on it to see what needs to be replaced now. If yours is like most of our trucks upgrading or at least renewing the brakes, ignition system and making sure that you have a clean fuel system from the tank to and including the carb are essential.

Charlie is 100% correct. Lots of people screw up a perfectly good old truck trying to make frame swaps and never finish the project.

Suggest that you get the truck running and driving first. Then spend some time behind the wheel in all sorts of driving conditions before you make any changes, particularly big ones.

Suggest that you tell us more about your truck (year, model, engine, trans, condition) and, as always we need pictures so we can better help you.