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1961 - 1966 F-100 & Larger F-Series Trucks Discuss the Slick Sixties Ford Truck

Compatibility guru help?

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Old Nov 11, 2021 | 08:48 AM
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Compatibility guru help?

Hello everyone, I have the factory 4x4 running gear except engine for a 1961 F100 Flairside longbed. The engine and bellhousing would need to come from the conversion truck. I have been watching the market in my area for a suitable truck to convert to vintage 4wd. The major parts for said upgrade:
T98
D44 frontend
D24 transfer case
9” Rearend
drivelines x3
perches, levers, etc

My question is do these parts simply bolt into 1961-66 trucks with minimal modifications? Do they also bolt into 1958-60 with only modifications for the transfer case mount to the frame?

Thanks in advance for any insight into my dilemma!
 
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Old Nov 11, 2021 | 05:55 PM
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40 years ago I converted a 60 2wd short bed to 4wd using parts from a 59 long bed 4wd. From what I remember it was all bolt in except I needed to modify drive shafts for length. For 61 through 66 though (except for the 66 F100) the 4x4 trucks all used a 120" wheelbase and a different frame. I think everything would still be pretty much bolt in but the difference in wheelbase would make it obvious to those that know these trucks that it was not a factory 4x4.
 
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Old Nov 11, 2021 | 06:30 PM
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Originally Posted by 53deere
40 years ago I converted a 60 2wd short bed to 4wd using parts from a 59 long bed 4wd. From what I remember it was all bolt in except I needed to modify drive shafts for length. For 61 through 66 though (except for the 66 F100) the 4x4 trucks all used a 120" wheelbase and a different frame. I think everything would still be pretty much bolt in but the difference in wheelbase would make it obvious to those that know these trucks that it was not a factory 4x4.
Good information! Does a longbed ‘58-60 wheelbase match the ‘61-65 or is it different?
 
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Old Nov 12, 2021 | 09:03 AM
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Originally Posted by 53deere
40 years ago I converted a 60 2wd short bed to 4wd using parts from a 59 long bed 4wd. From what I remember it was all bolt in except I needed to modify drive shafts for length. For 61 through 66 though (except for the 66 F100) the 4x4 trucks all used a 120" wheelbase and a different frame. I think everything would still be pretty much bolt in but the difference in wheelbase would make it obvious to those that know these trucks that it was not a factory 4x4.
I like the idea of making a shortbed into 4x4. How did it turn out? Did it make the truck fabulous? Any pointers or issues come up after the conversion? Thanks
Brett
 
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Old Nov 12, 2021 | 09:32 AM
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Originally Posted by Red60
Good information! Does a longbed ‘58-60 wheelbase match the ‘61-65 or is it different?
The 57-60 wheelbase was 118" regardless if it was 2WD or 4WD and for 1961-1965 F100/250 4x4 and 1966 F250 4x4 they all had 120" wheelbase like 53Deere said and if Styleside used the same 57-60 bed. Here's a picture of my one 1966 F250 4x4.



 
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Old Nov 12, 2021 | 10:42 AM
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Originally Posted by TA455HO
The 57-60 wheelbase was 118" regardless if it was 2WD or 4WD and for 1961-1965 F100/250 4x4 and 1966 F250 4x4 they all had 120" wheelbase like 53Deere said and if Styleside used the same 57-60 bed. Here's a picture of my one 1966 F250 4x4.

Nice truck! Thank you for that information!
 
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Old Nov 12, 2021 | 04:57 PM
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Here is the 60 shortbed converted to 4x4. This was 40 years ago but I don't remember any issues. This was 460/C6 powered. Factory drum brakes with a power booster, ram assist power steering added, sort of like the later high boys used.

 
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Old Nov 12, 2021 | 05:00 PM
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Originally Posted by Red60
Nice truck! Thank you for that information!
I'm waiting for Chad to get tired of either one of his 66 4x4's and sell it to me!
 
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Old Jan 9, 2022 | 08:55 AM
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Hello,
Do you remember where you got the Ram assist power steering? Looking on adding that to mine
 
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Old Jan 9, 2022 | 06:21 PM
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Originally Posted by SBUCINI
Hello,
Do you remember where you got the Ram assist power steering? Looking on adding that to mine

That was over 40 years ago. Not really a good option for today even if you can find the parts. Best bet today is probably to use a late 70's F250 power box, some other power box, or electric. I believe you can buy electric kits or source junkyard parts and an aftermarket controler.
 
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Old Jan 9, 2022 | 09:10 PM
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Compatibility Guru? Are you seeking a matchmaker?
 
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Old Jan 9, 2022 | 10:13 PM
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Originally Posted by ibuzzard
Compatibility Guru? Are you seeking a matchmaker?
substitute “expert” for Guru if that makes you less queezy!
 
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Old Jan 9, 2022 | 10:29 PM
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I have a set up for the power assist steering. Send me a private message and I can make it yours!
 
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