Frame Swap
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New User
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 8
Likes: 0
From: Knoxville USA
Frame Swap
I reciently aquired a 1957 Ford Panel Truck in rolling chassie condition. I would like to upgrade the suspension by doing a complete frame swap.
Does anyone know if there is a ford frame ( like a early 70's SW) that could be used for this?
Does anyone know if there is a ford frame ( like a early 70's SW) that could be used for this?
Logistics Pro
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 4,489
Likes: 5
From: Valley Center, CA
I've seen this question a lot, but the said truth is that there is no easy frame swap. However, I am hopeful and optimistic that someone will someday find a good swap. So don't be shy if you do the project. Shared info is what this site is about. Good luck, John 
Posting Guru
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 1,495
Likes: 2
From: Northwest Fl
Wiley0ne,
A couple of folks are doing them, myself included. My ‘55 is currently sitting on a ‘69 F100 frame with the ‘75 F-100 I-Beams and disc brakes swapped out. It’s not a popular swap; most of the guys doing the full frame swaps seem to be going for the Ranger/S-10 conversions for the more modern front suspension.
I chose the Twin-I-Beam frame because it was available and because I had owned three different Twin-I-Beam trucks and had no complaints about how they drove or handled. I guess I’m kind of old school, I don’t want my truck to drive like a car (no offense aimed at the fellows with the other conversions, to each their own) and I don’t want it too low.
As already mentioned, it’s not easy, but I’m not a mechanic or welder by trade and I haven’t run into anything yet that has poised too big of a challenge. There are still hurdles to cross, as I’m far from finished, but so far so good. I have some pics. in my gallery if you care to look.
Good luck in your project, whichever way you decide to go.
A couple of folks are doing them, myself included. My ‘55 is currently sitting on a ‘69 F100 frame with the ‘75 F-100 I-Beams and disc brakes swapped out. It’s not a popular swap; most of the guys doing the full frame swaps seem to be going for the Ranger/S-10 conversions for the more modern front suspension.
I chose the Twin-I-Beam frame because it was available and because I had owned three different Twin-I-Beam trucks and had no complaints about how they drove or handled. I guess I’m kind of old school, I don’t want my truck to drive like a car (no offense aimed at the fellows with the other conversions, to each their own) and I don’t want it too low.
As already mentioned, it’s not easy, but I’m not a mechanic or welder by trade and I haven’t run into anything yet that has poised too big of a challenge. There are still hurdles to cross, as I’m far from finished, but so far so good. I have some pics. in my gallery if you care to look.
Good luck in your project, whichever way you decide to go.
New User
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 23
Likes: 0
From: Mooresville (south of indy)
Is your frame in good condition? If so you would be time and money ahead by just doing a front end conversion. By swapping the frame that is all you end up doing anyway, because the rear suspension would be of the same basic design as what you already have. One of the great things about the '57's is it was the first year for the 9". So that part is good already. Just my 1 1/2 cents.
Logistics Pro
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 4,489
Likes: 5
From: Valley Center, CA
Wow, be sure and take pics. The final stance of the truck is usually the bad part. Body transfers have the rep for having bodies that sit way too high, kinda like a 4x4. Good luck, John
Posting Guru
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 1,243
Likes: 0
From: Michigan
Hi
"I talked to my bodyman and he says that we can do the whole frame easier than the clip."
Interesting never heard anybody say that!
I think you need to know how many body/frame swaps this person has done then you should look at them and talk to the owners before you adventure into this. There is a lot more to do then just set the body on the frame.
Just like it's not a piece of cake to install a front clip but perhaps this guy is as good as he says or thinks he is.
One other thought get the full installed price on both choices if you can.
Good luck
Chuck
"I talked to my bodyman and he says that we can do the whole frame easier than the clip."
Interesting never heard anybody say that!
I think you need to know how many body/frame swaps this person has done then you should look at them and talk to the owners before you adventure into this. There is a lot more to do then just set the body on the frame.
Just like it's not a piece of cake to install a front clip but perhaps this guy is as good as he says or thinks he is.
One other thought get the full installed price on both choices if you can.
Good luck
Chuck
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Post Fiend
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 6,328
Likes: 124
From: Iowa
"I talked to my bodyman and he says that we can do the whole frame easier than the clip."
He is absolutely mistaken. Not saying a frame swap can't be done. Not saying he isn't crazy enough to do it for a reasonable price. But easier than an IFS install. No way! If he does it right, it will not be anything that resembles the time required for an IFS install.
If you don't believe anything else we say, don't scatter your truck until you have a written price quote that outlines the included costs.
He is absolutely mistaken. Not saying a frame swap can't be done. Not saying he isn't crazy enough to do it for a reasonable price. But easier than an IFS install. No way! If he does it right, it will not be anything that resembles the time required for an IFS install.
If you don't believe anything else we say, don't scatter your truck until you have a written price quote that outlines the included costs.
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