It's been a while since we were able to do any work on the 40 pickup. Customer jobs and other projects had taken up most of our time and shop space. I had let the 2 previous employees go, and hired 2 new guys. In the later part of 2012, we decided to pull the 40 out of storage and get back to work on it. During the time the 40 was in storage, it was decided to change direction of the build. We came up with some new ideas in combination with ideas I had from before. Overall, we are very happy with the end result. The truck is just about ready to go for body and paint. Here are photos of the build from then until now. Initial Mockup Pictures At this stage we were trying to determine rake and wheel/tire sizing. Gives a pretty good idea as to how the truck will sit.
In these next photos, the rear wheel and tire size had been finalized. The frame is set to ride height and we were beginning to look at modification to the front suspension.
A work of art there. Love the frame jig set up. I guess you just keeping reusing the metal floor of your jig with each new build. Just cut off the old frame supports and weld New ones on the next build. Sure keeps everything square. Nice stance on the 40'.
Thanks for the compliments everyone. Andy, the surface plate is reused on every build. The plate is adjustable up or down so that a truly level surface can be achieved. We set it using a transit and laser levels. Just to let you all know, the truck is pretty much finished and ready for body and paint. We have a bit of touch up work to do on the hood. I will try to post photos as soon as possible.
Looking from the front of the frame towards the rear. Shows new crossmember with radius rod mounting point and cut out for back of transmission.
That's a badass shop there bud. Digging the pile of parts on standby. Are the double doors with no stairs....the entrance to Hot Rod Heaven ? That truck looks to be in good hands, frame table and all.....you got the building theory part, pretty well licked. Sweet write up. Can't wait for the next. Subscribed sir.
Thanks Kid. Yes, behind those double doors are the entrance to Hod Rod Heaven. Houses a 10 year collection of ultra rare speed equipment and other goodies.
The Jalopy Journal
