Has anyone out there researched the feasibility of building (or actually built) a classic Effie on a later model car or truck chassis? Something like a Ford Ranger, or maybe an older Fairlane / Torino chassis seems feasible to get IFS, better brakes, power steering, etc. in one package.

Your opinions are appreciated!
-Jim Hodgson

 

i have seen a guy at the Ozark nationals that used a 90's model F250 chassis under his old F-3. It sounded pretty cool with that power stroke diesel.

 

I also am trying to dig some specifications on chassis. I am looking to put a '55 F-100 onto a later model 4x4 frame. Have considered either a Bronco or a Standard Cab shortbed, but am unsure of actual wheelbases, length and width. If a Bronco is acceptable, also trying to decide whether a '80 and later model with independent front suspension would be of any benefit over the straight axles offered in the '78-'79 models. I actually prefer the straight axles, but am open to any pro's and con's on the issue. Oh, also, would like to settle a 390 granny 4-speed in for plenty of power as needed. Any thoughts would be appreciated.

 

I saw a 1948 chevy 1 ton today, that the fella had put on a 1977 chassis. The thing looked REAL good! His front tires stuck out from the fenders about 1 1/2 inches on each side, but he said he had not yet tried negative offset rims. If you can do it with a chevy you ought to be able to do it with a ford!! I have a 1955 F250. My wheelbase is 118 inches. I measured a 1989 shortbed F150, and the wheelbase is exactly the same. However the frame is wider on the newer trucks, andI'm concerned that the same problem would exist with the tires sticking out from the fenders. I still think that a long bed Ranger might be the ticket for me. Wheelbase is 117 1/2 on the Rangers.

 

Thanks to those who have answered my original message. Curtis, when I get a chance, I'm going to my local truck junkyard with a tape measure and get all the chassis specs on the different Ranger chassis. My 54 f-100 has a 110" wheelbase, I think the Ranger shortbed has a 108", so I would probably have to relocate the rear suspension, which is usually not too big a fabrication job. I'm mainly after a clean, un-pitted frame and the independent front suspension, along with power steering. Just to be different, I'm thinking of putting a 300 CID I-6 engine rather than a v-8 in it. Like you, I'm more concerned about frame width, but only as it concerns cab and bed mounting aspcts of the swap.

 

 

trying to my 58 f250 on a 79 bronco 4x4. frame is same width but shorter than my long bed. trying to decide on a shortbox or to have the frame extended. mine is 119" wheelbase and the bronco is 106".