I think what stopped forward progress on the 56 was the hatch back door. I was hoping someone would make a one piece fiberglass one. Just an excuse I know but there it is. The 53 is just getting an power brakes, power steering, new wiring, a engine, AOD, and possibly a 9”. Gonna leave it in patina and drive it a while.
You wouldn’t happen to have a original fuel filler for a Panel would you?

 

What's the condition of the rear doors on the 56..?

 

They’re actually very solid. The trucks been garaged since the late 70s.

 

I welded mine together , I have a magazine article on doing it...

 

My problem was they are so nice I hated to mess the pair up. I’ve since got another set and the pinto hatch hinges. Poor ole Panel just got pushed off in the corner until???

 

You really should concentrate on one and finish it...

 

You hit the nail on the head John. That’s why I’m concentrating on the 53. It’s sort of a no brainer. The 56 is going to have a Crown Vic Frontend and either a Mark VIII IRS or a Explorer rear end with a 4.6 DOHC & Overdrive transmission. Lots of things to figure out with fuel injection, and all the electronics etc.

 

What about the pickups you have finished...

 

Nothing I have is finished. One 56 truck has been in the body shop since February before last. The 56 BBW was at a different bodyshop for over 18 months and totally butchered. It’s Cab is on my trailer waiting for me to find another place that will unscrew the damage that’s been done. My 54 was the doner for the engine in the Panel. No shortage of things to do around here that’s for sure.

 

I'd like another project but have little room for one..

 

I’m really outta space too but I need to cull the heard. I think a couple or three would be more than enough.

 

I find even with the 2 I have finished there is still enough to do...lol

 

Another successful day at the shop. Pulled the old fuel tank (nothing left to save there) pulled the front clip, and mocked up the engine & tranny.

Pretty sad shape

More holes than metal

Holes everywhere

Front clip came off nice but twisted off both radiator U mounting bolts

351C and AOD fits like it was made for the ole 53.

 

Got some more quality time at the shop today. Pulled the rest of the Glass, installed the power steering hoses and filled the system, then started pulling out the old brake and clutch assembly.

No more cracked windshield

No more barn door glass

Pump end of the power steering

Series 400 end of the power steering

 

Looking good BJ.
I need to find some time to spend in the shop. The Ozark Mountain Run will be on us before you know it.