Box or not to box?

[DaddyT]

Recently I picked up an early Ford double A frame. (Model AA dump version). I'm planning on using the rails only. The frame horns were missing and the rails will need to be cut to length since they are over 14' long. The wall thickness of the rails are 3/16" and the width of the rail is 1-3/4" at the front to 2-1/2" at the back where I want to make the cut. The rear frame section will be made of 2x3x .188 rectangular tubing. My question is, Do I need to box in the rails?

 

[rustybeercan]

What kind of motor are you thinking about using? [S

Beercan

 

[DaddyT]

351 Windsor.

 

[Bonehead]

If you can box the frame, I would. It is just better, with less frame twist, and possible future breakage.

 

[rustybeercan]

351 Windsor.

If you can box the frame, I would. It is just better, with less frame twist, and possible future breakage.

What Bonehead said! That's a big motor for a frame like that and it's easier to do it now than try to fix a problem later.

Beercan

 

[DaddyT]

Thanks for the advise. So I've seen two different boxing methods, closing the channel flush or just inside the channel leaving a lip. Is one better than the other?

 

[jfg455]

neither one is better than the other. Flush boxing is easier and the recessed boxing is more of a traditional look or factory look to it. It also alows you to run your piping for fuel and brakes just inside the lip. I like the recessed style but that is just my opinion. [