1948 F1 build (first rat build)

[jdclem]

I have decided to go the rat rod route on my next build. 1948 F1 I am using original front suspension.I need direction / instruction on the frame. I have a few questions and would really like to hear from the pros! Why is the frame behind the cab cut and raised so high? Can someone give me a good design idea and where to start? I will post some pics as soon as I get back to the shop. Right now She is totaly disassembled. The frame is blasted and sitting on the stands. I am raring to go [dr just need help on frame design PLEASE!!

 

[Tim...Ok]

Tell us a little about what you have in mind for it and maybe we can help..Stock appearing in the weeds? Fenderless bobber style? Give us a clue where you want to go..

 

[Dirtyrat]

The method of "Z-ing" the frame is to lower the cab in relation to the suspension & remaining frame.

Are you going to modify the stock frame or build one?

If you are keeping the stock front beam there are a few options for going with a transverse spring in the front and there are a few guys here doing that with the stock beam axle that can link their build threads for you.

Welcome to the board, definitely get some pics posted and you will get plenty of ideas and help here, great group of guys on this board.

 

[riverrat]

It all depends on what you want out of your truck, the fords are some of the best looking trucks( my opinion). I like em in the weeds, and stock appearing, my two cents. Bobbers are cool too

 

[jdclem]

and.....GO!

Below I am attaching some photos. Not really much to look at but will show you guys what Im working with. I really want to use the original frame. Going with a short boxy style Bobber. I would like to use the front leafs that came off the truck. I have already revers eyed them. I intended to build another street rod until I came upon this site and it started warping my brain! Thank you! lol any way, I have all of the 48 F1 and its all in fine condition. I can handle the metal and the body work. I have never had to customize my frame so thats where I need help. Anyone have any ideas on how to utilise me front leafs but still slamming the front? Maybe cut and rased clip? custom raised leaf mounts?

 

[jdclem]

PICS

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[Tim...Ok]

If you plan on using fenders, I would ditch the leafs and add a Mustang II type crossmember..in the weeds with disc brakes and rack and pinion steering..

Here is a 54 that a friend and I installed one in..

 

[jdclem]

well...

yeah I have done the IFS on a few early model ford trucks. They were more performance based and I needed the control and dynamics that you get from the IFS. On this one I want to do something I have never done. Its just a cruiser with an attutude build. Something I can turn some heads with and take to local shows to add some flavor! Not many rats where Im located.

 

[jdclem]

Like it

I like a lot of the ideas but I think Im leaning toward Tim...oks 48 build style front suspension. It looks like it uses my stock front axel. I want to reuse as many parts that I already have. Also this is my first rat and im going to be careful not to eat too much!lol