Getting ready to four link my 49 f1. I marked the stock axle center line which is just forward of the bump stop. I'm wondering where I should locate the axle. I don't have the bed and can't get it right now. Also I searched and couldn't find anything.

 

This might help. Welcome to here.

 

Thanks a lot. Hopefully getting the axle and four link in this weekend so I'll post some pics. Here's the front end so far Say something about this photo

 

Looks nicely done! Are you keeping the stock engine? If so, why the 4-link? Just for ride height?

 

I would of kept stock suspension but I cut the front stuff off about 20 years ago. As a teenager didn't have money and the truck sat. I decided I want to add air ride so that's why the four link. And yes it will have the original flathead.i trimmed the mounts to fit and welded them in. Motor is. .030 over, domed pistons, stock heads and I'm waiting on some center dump headers from speedway as well as a Meyer intake. I will be running a t5 behind that. Say something about this photo

 

Damn nice welding!
TractormanBill

 

Project looks like it's off to a very nice start!

 

Thanks guys. Received a bunch of goodies from speedway yesterday so I'll keep everyone posted. Say something about this photo

 

As far as locating your bed, the wheelbase is 114 inches as shown on above diagram. Even though that diagram is for a 51-52, ( grill is different), the wheelbase dimension is the same as 48-50.) Other dimensions are ever so slightly different too.

On my 49 f-1 truck, which has original steel bed and fenders, something has been tweaked where on side looks centered, and the other side looks to be 1/2 inch off - too far forward - axle needs to be moved back 1/2 inch toward rear. (And yet rear alignment is perfect.) I have noticed this inch or so difference on other trucks. The more the tires are located to the outside, the more pronounced the non-centering becomes. Maybe I am too fussy?

With you starting with a new bed set up, I guess you will be able to just mount fenders where they look good on each side.

Comments from other F-1 owners how centered their wheels look in rear fenders?

 

I do have the original bed. It's just not at my house. I guess I'll have to wait till I have it to locate the rear axle

 

Since you already have the IFS installed you should have your reference point identified for the rear axle placement. Not much else to be gained with the bed. Come back 114 inches from the front axle/spindle location and call it a day. I like to run a couple of diagonals just to make sure that the axle is square to the frame.

 

I have it mocked up at the bump stops. I'll see where that measures out at and adjust if needed.