Help! Not Sure where to begin

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Sep 5, 2006 | 01:20 PM

Fordtrk26

Thread Starter

Junior User

Joined: Jun 2003

Posts: 53

Likes: 0

Help! Not Sure where to begin

So, Im finally ready to get started on my 53 ford f-100. I just have no clue on where to begin. I know that the Carb prob needs to be rebuilt. Would I have to make a lot of changes if I wanted to get power steering installed? I def want to keep the six thats in there. Im just sort of stumped on where I should start. Any help is greatly apperciated.

Sep 5, 2006 | 02:35 PM

53fatfndr

Cargo Master

Joined: May 2003

Posts: 2,561

Likes: 1

From: Earth

What are you wanting to do with the truck? A full restoration, modify it, or just get it driveable?

I'll just assume you are wanting a driver, or at least drive it for a while and still be able to work on it with short periods of down time? If that is the case, then I would get the engine in good working condition, go through the brakes (complete system), replace the tires (if needed), check the u-joints in the driveline, make sure the wiring is in good condition.....etc, etc. Then I would tackle the power steering upgrade. Basically, make it safe for the road, then start with the interior, bed floor replacement, paint....whatever your plans are.

I ended up doing a frame-off restoration/modification on my '53, so I never drove it when I first got it. I tore it down to the bare bones and then started building it back and doing alot of mods and parts replacement.

There are some guys on here that drive thiers while they work on them, so maybe they will be of more help. Just remember to keep safety first and make sure everything works before you put it on the road. Good luck!

Sep 5, 2006 | 02:36 PM

Code3

Elder User

Joined: May 2006

Posts: 966

Likes: 1

From: Too far north of I-10

Read this. Earl rules!

http://www.clubfte.com/users/earl/index.html

Read this too. JNiolon rules too!

https://www.ford-trucks.com/article/...e_Builder.html

Sep 5, 2006 | 02:41 PM

Randy Jack

Postmaster

Joined: Jun 2004

Posts: 4,190

Likes: 2

From: Riverside, So Cal

I'm a big advocate for driving the truck before major mods. Since you already know you want to keep the six (and probably the tranny), concentrate on the driveline and brakes/steering, etc. Get it mechanically reliable, then drive it for a while. You'll find out first hand what really needs changing and what you actually like just fine.

Had I done that with mine, I know I would have not done many things that seemed cool at the time. These old trucks are pretty neat stock.

My guess is you'll want to upgrade from front drum to disk. You could add a booster and go to power drum, but you'd still have the fade problem that comes with drum brakes.

The steering probably needs work (drunken monkey), and power steering is available as a Toyota box or ram assist for the stock solid front axle.

In any event, just get it on the road first, then make your plans from direct experience. Believe me, it will be A LOT cheaper that way.

The rust will keep. And besides, "patina" is in now.

Sep 5, 2006 | 02:45 PM

AXracer

Hotshot

Joined: Oct 2004

Posts: 15,882

Likes: 88

From: Durham NC

All good advice!
For more info on steering options go here: https://www.ford-trucks.com/article/...60_Trucks.html

Sep 5, 2006 | 03:42 PM

WillyB

Post Fiend

Joined: Sep 2004

Posts: 5,231

Likes: 1

From: Near Fresno, California

Quote:

Originally Posted by Fordtrk26

So. . . I just have no clue on where to begin. . . . I

First, do a user gallery.

Second, join either the Northern (best) or Southern California Chapters of FTE depending on if you live north or south of the Grapevine.

Third, make the truck roadworthy (safe and dependable) and start enjoying your truck.

Last, start planning and doing the appearance and hardware upgrades you want.

btw, just click on the banner below to join the Northern Chapter

Last edited by WillyB; Sep 5, 2006 at 03:47 PM.