Chassis info
Thread Starter
|
4th Gear
Joined: May 2026
Posts: 4
Likes: 0
Chassis info
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
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
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 1,262
Likes: 520
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 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.
Fleet Owner
Joined: Dec 2000
Posts: 25,378
Likes: 5,387
From: Central PA
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 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.
Cargo Master
Joined: Aug 2015
Posts: 2,074
Likes: 101
From: Marana, Arizona
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.
Scott in AZ.
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.
Scott in AZ.
Fleet Mechanic
Joined: Dec 2021
Posts: 1,262
Likes: 520
I think it was a 2006.
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.
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.
Thread
Thread Starter
Forum
Replies
Last Post
willthesaint
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
6
Feb 2, 2016 07:20 AM
LastChanceGarage
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
51
Sep 27, 2012 10:05 PM
lunchboxleach
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
23
Feb 18, 2011 08:36 AM
Trent Shirley
1948 - 1956 F1, F100 & Larger F-Series Trucks
4
Feb 14, 2001 08:03 PM
