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1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks Discuss the Fat Fendered and Classic Ford Trucks

53 f100 frame problems

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Old Dec 25, 2019 | 11:06 AM
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53 f100 frame problems

Ok new to this. I just bought a 53 f100 and the frame is just square tubing and no were near finished. I have no clue where to start with it looking to maybe getting a new frame to start with. What would fit and with very little mods. Looking for a very low cost why to get this started. Thanks for the help
 
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Old Dec 25, 2019 | 11:38 AM
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The frames on these trucks are simple and built to handle a lot of flex in the suspension. If you are new to the early F100 hobby then you would probably be best served by finding a replacement OEM frame. If you have fabrication skills then you could build one (as it appears the previous owner of your truck did) to suit your requirements. Here is a drawing that you may find helpful with whatever path you choose.


 
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Old Dec 25, 2019 | 11:42 AM
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I agree with Charlie. Frame fabrication takes some skills and a frame jig is highly recommended.. It ain't just about dimensions but at least you could check your frames dimensions against the stock drawing Charlie posted. Gud luck and welcome to FTE

john
 
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Old Dec 25, 2019 | 01:12 PM
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I would agree with the other's advice. 53-56 F-100 frames would be a direct replacement for your application. There's lots of them out there, so it shouldn't be too hard to find what you need.
 
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Old Dec 25, 2019 | 02:18 PM
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Show us pictures of your current frame.
 
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Old Dec 25, 2019 | 02:50 PM
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I have frames....... in Akron Ohio
where are you located?
 
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Old Dec 26, 2019 | 07:57 AM
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Bigwin I'm located in Rochester, Pennsylvania and I will be posting a pic of current frame in a little bit need to get motivated to start my day in the garage
 
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Old Dec 26, 2019 | 10:36 AM
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First of welcome to FTE!

Now down to the nitty gritty. Seriously consider what you’re going to do with your truck. (enjoy, cruise, show, race, etc). All have different requirements. If you’re REALLY new to old F1s and F-100s I’d suggest attending something like the Grand Nationals or Super Nationals and get lots of ideas. A lot of the trucks there are owner built and they can and will discuss Modifications they made and if they’d do it again. Both events mentioned are in or near Pigeon Forge, TN. I believe they are trying to get to 700 trucks for the Grand Nationals. Both also will have vendors selling everything from sheet metal to complete custom frames. And there’s used parts vendors as well. If you wanna get pumped up they’re a must attend!

If you provide pictures we can assist on how to proceed on your chassis (Aka frame).

Forgot:


Grand Nationals 14-16 May 2029


Super Nationals Sept 24-25 2020
 
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Old Dec 26, 2019 | 11:20 AM
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It is your bear bone frame that's why I wanted to know if anything else would work with little mods just something I can work with. Now that me and my son started taking measurements we are finding out nothing is the same....go figure
 
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Old Dec 26, 2019 | 11:57 AM
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Well now! There’s not much there is there? I’d give it an E for effort but not much more until all the measurements show it’s square.

I’d say looking for a rolling original frame may put you way ahead in your build if you’re planning to just enjoy your new ride. You’ll find that acquiring all the stuff to put one of these together can be daunting enough let alone having to engineer stuff to fit a non original frame.
 
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Old Dec 26, 2019 | 12:21 PM
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That homemade frame scares me. I wouldn't trust it.
 
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Old Dec 26, 2019 | 12:22 PM
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Yeow! Time to wipe the slate clean and start over. Rectangular tubing should be a minimum 2x5 0.120 wall. Lots of 4-links on the market today, no need to cobble up a mess like that. Best bet is to get a good OEM frame and go from there.
 
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Old Dec 26, 2019 | 02:04 PM
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No way I'd use what you have. Find someone with a parts truck and buy the frame off the guy..
 
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Old Dec 26, 2019 | 02:38 PM
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that is mailbox post material... find a frame !
j
 
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Old Dec 26, 2019 | 02:39 PM
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Originally Posted by jniolon
that is mailbox post material... find a frame !
j
I was thinking workbench..
 
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