[john321]

I don't have a lot of up front cash to build with. A possible start to a rod project has presented it's self. I was talking to my boss today about our old G20 Chevy utility van. It's a short frame van with a 350 Chevy and auto tranny. We are looking at scrapping the van this coming fall since the body is ready to fall off the frame. My thought was with the short frame 1/2 ton suspension 350 and auto tranny it might be a good base to build off of. I was thinking I could find a old 30's 2 door that was missing the front end that I could put onto the frame. The van would come to me really cheap or hopefully free. Would this be a wise way to go or will this frame not work?? Thanks for any input.

 

[delawarebill]

project

most likely that frame will only fit the G20.. u'll need to modify it to fit a 30's car and may not be worth the time.. IF the drive train is in good cond w/o needing rebuild then it a good parts car. u didn't put down where u are from, but maybe a project on this site will suit your needs...

 

[timothale]

donor drive train

Build a T bucket or lakester, use the engine, trans, rear end, steering column, mabe the gages , master cykinder, find a 40's ford front suspension, or shop speedway, and always consider looking for someone's unfinished project. My niece's boyfriend had a buddy that was selling a started T bucket project for 2 grand, half of what he had in it. I passed it by, too many projects , I picked up a steel T body in decent shape for $ 100, a neighbor told me I could have his old Hay wagon, made from a 20's car, I just to haul everything there away, burn the rotted wood.

 

[john321]

I figured the frame would need to be modified to fit whatever I build. Just figured the frame would be heavy enough to handle anything I wish to build plus having the 350 already mounted would make it easy on that part of the project. Have not set anything in stone just looking for input before I do. Thanks for any ideas... Oh from Wisconsin

 

[poncho62]

I think if you look close at that van, the frame is part of the body (unibody).....Take the drivetrain out and use those parts in another car

 

[Mojo56]

That IS unibody....no frame.

 

[john321]

Thanks for that insight on the frame I looked into it today after work there seems to be some sort of frame work the length of the van it was a thought hopefully the motor and drive train will be good for something

 

[Bad66]

Thanks for that insight on the frame I looked into it today after work there seems to be some sort of frame work the length of the van it was a thought hopefully the motor and drive train will be good for something

Check the block casting. If it's a "010" block (you never know), it's most likely a 4 bolt, and these are pretty sought after because of their high nickel content.

 

[timothale]

check some build threads

Reads Cboys eBook here on HR, "the scratch built hot rod" good info, but his projects would take a while for a beginner, Check out donsrods "basic T bucket build" on the killbillet forum , lots of detailed info and pictures.