Complete body swap.
Thread Starter
|
New User
Joined: Dec 2004
Posts: 7
Likes: 0
Complete body swap.
I have recently picked up a '88 f-350 with a 460 gas engine with low miles and a clean and rust free frame. The cab and bed have seen better days. I am looking to do a complete restoration from the frame up. Can anyone tell me what year cabs and beds will fit my '88? I am hoping to go with a '96 but am unsure if everything on the frame will line up. I am planning on swapping out all of the body tin.
Thanks.
Thanks.
FTE Leadership Emeritus
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 161,999
Likes: 75
From: 3rd Rock
Welcome to the only family Ford Truck site, on the net. The members in these forums are very knowledgeable about trucks; they will eagerly help you…with your question. If you have a minute check out the Guidelines, it will help you to navigate through FTE.
Enjoy FTE
Enjoy FTE
Post Fiend
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 6,214
Likes: 13
From: New Jersey
The newer body style (92-96) will fit fine, IF you change the headlight support and radiator support from the newer truck to the older frame.
The cab, doors, bed and tailgates are dimensionally the same, so you can even mix and match. The wiring and trim is different, however.
The cab, doors, bed and tailgates are dimensionally the same, so you can even mix and match. The wiring and trim is different, however.
Post Fiend
Joined: Oct 2003
Posts: 6,214
Likes: 13
From: New Jersey
It would be easier to use the old column and linkages to avoid such issues, but the newer cabs (92-96) have a different column mounting system, they use "shorty" columns like similar year town cars, mustangs, crown vics, marquis, thunderbirds and mark-whatevers. If you use the old column you'll have to fabricate straps to hold the old column up and in place - think pipe hangers just much thicker. Easy to make too, cut out 1" wide, 1/4" thick strips, and heat them with an oxy torch and bend them around a second of pipe the same diameter as the old column. I believe the steering column mount in the newer cabs are removable, but I've not teared down quite that far to verify. Glancing at mine I see large nuts with bolt stubs hanging out, so more than likely its removable.
