Big Block in 40 Ford

Randy Owens · #1 (**permalink**) 12-09-2002, 09:07 AM

Have a 40 Woodie project going, with a big block chevrolet for power. Would appreciate any advice, comments, etc. pro/con as to whether I should run an I beam or IFS. Not after a show car, or trying to be period correct, but want something that is safe and comfortable to drive.

**Deuce** · #2 (**permalink**) 12-09-2002, 04:36 PM

I have a 40 Ford business coupe. 283 and a straight axle. Drives very good. The SBC is so close to the flathead in weight that it does not affect the handling. :p :p

Adding a Big Block is like putting 2 80lbs. sacks of concrete on the front bumper. It will be nose heavy, require Power Steering and plow like a John Deere tractor.

Most IFS for these cars are Mustang II kits, or based on a Mustang II. Too light for a heavy 40 Woodie with a heavy big block.

Gibbons Fiberglass makes a kit that provides a crossmember to use late 60's Road Runner A arms, spindles and 11" brakes. These components came under Big Block Mopars so they are heavy duty enough to do the job.

I would rethink the Big Block idea and go with a ZZ series small block. If you must do the Big Block thing.....go heavt duty on the front suspension.

Check this out....
<a href="http://www.streetrodstuff.com/Studio/Coupes/View_Ride.php?id=575" target="_blank">http://www.streetrodstuff.com/Studio/Coupes/View_Ride.php?id=575</a>

KULTULZ · #3 (**permalink**) 12-09-2002, 09:05 PM

[quote]Ex-moonshine hauler (that's whiskey to you yankees).<hr></blockquote>

Corn Liquor Tanker...

What part of the South are you from?

:p

Randy Owens · #4 (**permalink**) 12-10-2002, 04:12 AM

Thanks, that was my guy feeling about the big block, but just needed to hear it from someone else.
I will stick the big block in my daily driver, and go with the small block as suggested.

joegaddy · #5 (**permalink**) 12-10-2002, 04:44 AM

Here's my two cents Randy, I think you needn't worry about the big block weight on either the I-beam or MII. you can adjust spring rates to compensate. As far as ride and handeling, properly set up, they are pretty close.If you are starting with no front suspension, cost will be pretty close.I have had both, and liked both. I am now building another 40 coupe and am using MII.However, I have a good friend with a 39 coupe with I-beam, and you could not want more for a nice riding/driving car.I'm in Tulsa and can set you up for some rides in both types if that will help.

**Deuce** · #6 (**permalink**) 12-11-2002, 02:24 PM

[quote]Originally posted by KULTULZ:
<strong>

Corn Liquor Tanker...

What part of the South are you from?

:p </strong><hr></blockquote>

Columbia S.C. ....next to Fort Jackson...

**Deuce** · #7 (**permalink**) 12-15-2002, 12:47 PM

I have to agree with joeaddy ' in theory '. You can increase the spring rate to adjust for the added weight of a big block but they can not change the front/rear weight ratio.

A Big Block Chevrolet is 2 inches wider than a SBC, 2 inches taller, and more than 2 inches longer. The 2 inches wider makes hooking the steering up more difficult. The 2 inches taller raises the fan higher (cooling issues) and the center of gravity will be higher. The more than 2 inches longer means a very setback engine ( loss of foot room).

Big Block Chevrolets have a reputation for being not easy to cool. Add this to the fact that 40's have a small grille opening and are more difficult to cool than a lot of street rods, It is not a marriage made in heaven. :p :p

With that being said........... I have seen a few 40's with big block engines ( Ford's, Chevy's and others ). It can be done....... it just cost a lot, lot more

.

joegaddy · #8 (**permalink**) 12-16-2002, 02:20 PM

I'M WITH YOU DEUCE, I WOULDN'T USE A BIG BLOCK IN A 40 MYSELF.NOTHIN' FITS BETTER THAN A SMALL BLOCK CHEVY.

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