I recently acquired a 40 Ford p/u in really bad shape. The frame is rusted in four spots and is beyond repair. The body isn't far from being beyond repair also, but being up for the challenge I was wondering if anyone had information on using a modern frame under this body? Obvioulsy the easier the project the better. I want to rod it because I already have an original 53 Chevy truck and want a hot rod.
By the way I have the entire drive line (Flat head V-8, 3speed tranny, shaft and rear end. I do not know condition other than "not running" what would be a reasonable price tag on this item? Thanks for any and all help <img src="graemlins/crash.gif" border="0" alt="[crash]" />

The best frame for a 1940 Ford is a 1940 Ford. End of story.

All of this frame swapping is mostly smoke and mirrors. Width, lenght and wheelbase are just some of the things to be considered. About 15 attemps end up not finished out of 16 tried. And that 1 who gets it going has a piece of junk. 49 to 51 Mercurys are the exception.

TCI and others make repro frames with modern suspension adapted already. You will be Money and time ahead in the long run with better results.

A 1935 to 1940 Ford frame will work if you can find a decent one.

__________________
I went to the school of hard knocks ...
where the tuition is high but the retention is exceptional !

Hi New2heart
I to am doing a 40 Ford pickup,I located a very clean original frame on <a href="http://www.fordbarn.com" target="_blank">www.fordbarn.com</a> for 300 bucks. I am not as lucky as you, I don't have a complete truck. I have a very clean cab from a 46, I'm doing it the hard way, one piece at a time. I chose this route, due to cost. I can box the rails, Mustang II crossmember, coil over rear,transmission mount, myself for around half the cost of an aftermarket frame. But, thats your call, only you know what your talents and budget allows. I got a 454 BB .030 over and 400 trans for it. All GM HP parts with roller cam and rockers. Sould pump out 425-440 HP. If I can be of any help to you, please don't be afraid to ask. I think it would be nice to compare our progress, as we go along

As the '32 man says, the only frame for a 40 Ford is a 40 Ford (and the 35-40 pass and pickup and 41 pickup have the same dimensions and will work for a street rod).
Regarding the body, a 40 and 41 Pickup are for the most part the same, HOWEVER, the 42-47 Pickup cabs, although similar, do not work with the 40 front sheet metal, and are not '40s.
The 42-47 pickups have twin longitudinal springs front and rear.

First of all the only difference between the 40- 41 cabs and the 42-47 is the gas filler neck on the passenger side, there is a lot of difference in the suspension. If you want to go to an independant front suspension and parallel leaves in the rear you can use the 42-47 frames but they require some work at the at the front of the frame with the radiator mounts and front fender and grille mounts to fit properly. If you can find a good original frame it would be your best bet. Check Hemmings Motor News for someone near you that has one. Also some companies such as Fatmans, Fat Fendered Rod shop and some others have complete frames with engine mounts and suspension already installed. More costly to start but a lot less headaches, but then not near as much fun either.

Jalopy45 your right about the cab, my 46 has the gas filler neck opening, and it also has a opening in the floor for the fuel line. The floor in the 42-47 is more flat also. The 40 is build up in the rear half for the seat, I believe. I don't believe the 42-47 frame will work, due to wheelbase, it was increased to 114".

You got me on the fuel line Ron. I replaced my floor and firewall with units from *****in made for the '40 cab, mine were rusted out but all the mount holes lined up with the '45 frame. I wound up using a '49 box and fenders so I can't swear to any differences in the wheelbase. I didn't swear and got **** tried so say bit*chin**

[ October 25, 2002: Message edited by: jalopy45 ]</p>

THanks for the input guys, I have a line on a 41 Ford panel. Would this frame work? I have not had the chance to measure anything, plus my truck is folded where the frame is browkn, so I would not get a true wheelbase measurement anyway. THanks for your help.

The frame should be the same, check in a Wescotts catalog, they have most early ford frame measurements including the body mount holes. How rough is the Panel body?

Check Hemmings Motor News web page, a couple of 40's being parted out in TX that should have good frames.

i too am building a 1940 ford pick up i have an extra frame for sell if interested needs minor repair