Excited to be finally re-assembling the '56. Today was a major milestone as I put the crossmeber back in (shortened for AOD). However it wasn't until after I had the unjoints snugged and greased that I saw how close it runs to the crossmeber that's towards the back of the cab. (Face palm).

Can I just cut out that crossmenber? I know it's a long shot someone will say yes but here's for hoping. Otherwise I'll just do a mini-c-notch on it.

Wider view

 

Can you change your rubber transmission mount for a shorter one ?
That one seems to sit quite high .

 

I had thought about too but I set up the motor mounts and pinion angle while using that mount.
How much clearance is enough? I wonder if a shorter trans bushing would get me there.

 

Bumped the other thread to get more info

 

Is that at ride height? if so I would notch the crossmember to get a few inches clearance. The amount of clearance you need depends on how much suspension travel you have. I set mine up assuming the rear axle can hit the rear bump stops.

 

schoo, thanks for bumping. I need to update that thread since I've made a ton of progress.

Droptop, I agree all things equal notching is probably the best idea. Out with the plasma...

First step. Cutting a notch. Now I'll make an insert to strengthen the notch I'll likely use 1/8 plate.

 

Cleaned up notch
Cardboard template
Spot welded mock up
Test fit

 

Is that even an original cross member? Looks to be welded to the frame vs riveted on. Too late now but you could have maybe just turned it upside down?

 

It's riveted. I think just the dirt makes it look solid. Need to clean that.

 

Ok, I don't remember if my 55 has that one?

What is the transmission mount crossmember? Did you get that from a newer truck or is that original?

 

Crossmember is definitely not original. It was on the truck when I bought it (had a C4). I had to move it back for the AOD. It's only got one bolt on each side which I'm hoping won't be a problem.

 

That should be fine, I have a crossmember from a 1970's Ford truck and it also has only one bolt on each side!

 

That's great to hear, one less thing to worry about.

 

 

Nice job. But I think I would weld that upper gap closed. There is no sense in giving rust a place to start.