1951 Ford F1

[dmw56]

The roof section didn't quite line up with the lower posts so I made a relief cut in the upper corners to spread the upper posts to match the lower. I also had to cut a relief cut to widen the post a bit.





I actually had to split the post 4 ways to get it to fit

[dmw56]

After I got the front lined up and tacked into place I cut the doors and then the rear roof section. I removed 4" from underneath the rear window to lower it.

[dmw56]

I still need to trim a little of the rear for things line up better. I can use the piece I removed from under the window for the section on the roof. I just mocked up the rear section for now.





I think it looks great. Not bad for a first timer and a days work. It was very intimidating at first but after I got started it was all that difficult. So if any of you have reservations about doing a chop I'd encourage you to just go for it. Just make sure you do your planning, get Tex Smith's book on "How to Chop a Top", it's invaulable, measure 3 times then measure again before you make any cuts. It wasn't that hard. Not that I'm ready for that Mercury yet! But if you have basic metal working skills its doable!

[dmw56]

Before


After


Still need to finish fitting the rear section, the section on the roof, the doors and finish up all the welds.

[Gastrick]

In my opinion, that chop made a substantial difference in the overall proportions of your truck. It looks fantastic.

[dmw56]

Thanks Gastrick! I think it made a big difference also. I think a about a 4' section would look good too. But not willing to try that just yet.

[Thunder1]

You've got the truck looking great dmw56! I wish I was that far along on my 51! How many inches did you take out? I like the idea about sectioning the cab too but at 6' 2" it might not work out for me too well.

Thunder1

[dmw56]

Today I trimmed up the rear section and tacked into place.



The sides didn't line up there was a gap of about 3/4".



Made some relief cuts above and below the cut to make everything come together.



Now I have a 2" gap in the roof to be filled.

[dmw56]

View of the rear window from inside the cab.



View of the front windshield from inside.

[dmw56]

Set the frames on the doors to what it will look like.



I still need to sand off the paint over the lettering on the passenger side door.