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Afternoon All,
So after walking around and pondering this 56 Merc M350 for a couple weeks, I's a thinking, I might put the cab on a newer F- 250 chassis for a little better ride and handle, for my old 56 vintage body. Has any of you fine folks done so, and what year of newer chassis did you use.
If i do go this route, Is there anyone in need or interested in the original rolling chassis and "running" powertrain?
I have no experience with a M or F350 1956 version.
I did modify my 55 F-100 to use a S-550 IRS and a Crown Vic IFS.
In my opinion if your original frame is good, use it. Box it for additional strength and keep your title that goes with your original frame. The frames of those years are fairly straight, whereas modern frames have serious drops in the frame rails which would make fitting the cab more difficult. Installing new suspension seems easier than trying to fit an old cab on a new frame.
I have no experience with a M or F350 1956 version.
I did modify my 55 F-100 to use a S-550 IRS and a Crown Vic IFS.
In my opinion if your original frame is good, use it. Box it for additional strength and keep your title that goes with your original frame. The frames of those years are fairly straight, whereas modern frames have serious drops in the frame rails which would make fitting the cab more difficult. Installing new suspension seems easier than trying to fit an old cab on a new frame.
Agreed. Most newer frames are wider and the front wheels stick out too far.
I haven't done a frame swap but plenty of really determined guys have. I think they end up using a more mid sized model like maybe a Dodge Dakota or similar. Maybe search the wheelbase and axle width of various models out there that are still easy to get parts for.
I've also seen plenty that considered it and decided to modify their current frames. Lots to consider. Good luck with whatever you decide.
With the big wheel wells, I've often considered making my F3 a 4x4 and always end up deciding it's too much work and decide to keep it as is. (other than the mods I've already done) I can easily add a locker in the rear if I just HAVE to have more traction. I don't worry about a smooth ride. I still use it as a work truck. Front discs will probably happen...maybe. My drums are still good.
Some folks don’t like the Crown Vic because you must use inset wheels. Keep in mind, almost all modern cars use inset wheels which allow longer control arms. These modern suspensions are better than the old suspensions that allowed dished wheels. If the dished wheel look is important to you, the CV won’t work.
For me, it matched my Mustang S-550 IRS almost perfectly and allowed me to keep my truck mainly Ford. Besides, the CV is aluminum and I installed electric power steering on it. It also is easy to find parts for.
Afternoon All,
So after walking around and pondering this 56 Merc M350 for a couple weeks, I's a thinking, I might put the cab on a newer F- 250 chassis for a little better ride and handle, for my old 56 vintage body. Has any of you fine folks done so, and what year of newer chassis did you use.
If i do go this route, Is there anyone in need or interested in the original rolling chassis and "running" powertrain?
Greg
One thing to consider is that there are many projects like you are contemplating that people have enthusiastically started only to abandon and never finish.
Do lots of research and be well aware of what you are getting into before you start cutting up your truck.
I've don one frame swap and can say it was successful but I would never do it again. You are constantly figuring things out . When you decide one thing you have to think of what it creates 3 steps forward or you'll end up doing things over. I kept the original frame for my F100 pickup and it was a much easier build. For the Mercury M350 I'm doing now I kept the original frame and used the aftermarket for the suspension.
Not sure if you have plans on a lower stance or to keep it at stock height . A Crown Vic will lower it a fair amount so better think of what to do at the back end as well..either way you decide, be prepared to
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