[427v8]

So I had big plans on using an S10 frame for my '29 dodge, but after looking around it really doesn't sound like a good idea, engine placement, frame design, front suspension....

So I'm back to re-using the origional ( and in pretty good shape ) frame.

anyone think I'm not doing the right thing?

keith

[F&J]

Depends completely on if it is full fendered or not. Full fenders would be so much easier with a stock frame, and could use any type of front suspension. If it's fenderless or cycle fenders, then the twin springs will look too backyard....unless you clip off the curved framehorns and went with a Ford type I-beam?

Here's one I did in 1980; a 30 Desoto, a more or less similar frame.

[427v8]

Nice Desoto!
What did you use for a front suspension?

Well the deal breaker I can see is that the fenders attach to the frame, and the upper A-Arm would have to go through the fenter and hood...

I do want to have all the fender and running boards, so I don't see how it could be done AND look good.

[F&J]

I had stock springs & axle, but machined the spindles for early hipo dart 4 piston calipers. Plus a gm p/s box. 327 4speed. 67-72 dart 8-3/4 posi rear which is narrow enough to use reversed wheels

Take a look at some of those crossmembers from the front end rod shops that mount a mustang 2 front setup....those DON'T get any welding on top of the rail on most applications. There must be something close, because fullfendered A's & 32 Fords use Mustang 2 fronts, and those fenders do fit like the dodge...on top of the rails.

[F&J]

Forgot to mention that I boxed the front and the rear frame sections with 10ga? , but then added a X member made from new heavy wall 1-1/2" square tubing. One X was at the underside of the top lip of the frame, and a 2nd X that dropped/angled down a few inches, attached to the bottom inside lip of frame. Sort of like a space frame that allowed trans mount, and open areas for duals etc. Your sedan is stiffer, but I'd still beef it. Just plan ahead and add "captured" nuts inside the boxed areas to attach body bolts, fender bolts etc....can't get to them later.

I think Dodge stayed by itself a few years after joining Chrysler in 28, so some dodge bodies were mostly steel framed rather than total wood like Ply, Des, & chryslers. What a pain to redo ALL that wood or replace with tubing like I did.