Projects 1937 Ford Body Work and Chop

I purchased this car a little over a year ago with the intention of restoring it to close to its original configuration. I intended to upgrade the brakes and hubs to the 40 style.

I knew going in that this car was in pretty bad shape body wise. I’m the third owner and it has always been a Wisconsin car so was subjected to winter salt. What I liked about it was that it was complete and together. It had been sitting outside since the late 70’s so there were some issues there.

My first order was to get the car apart and start the repairs. I knew what was available from EMS as far as patch panels which I needed most of them. The smaller parts I would have to fabricate myself. I have some experience here after restoring several antique airplanes. I also had basic tools for fabricating metal. English wheel, planishing hammer, bead roller, shrinker/stretcher, sandbag and mallet and small brake.

After getting it apart and seeing what was going to have to be done, in the metal repair, I knew I had my work cut out for me. A friend was over one day and we were looking at the car and he said have you ever thought about chopping it? I said no but gave it some thought and decided a mild chop would be a nice addition.

The pictures show all the metal that was removed and what the car looks like before and after.

I do plan on keeping it all Ford using the 59AB.

 

Much improved. That thing did have a lot of rust didn’t it. Good job.

 

Brave man, but it sure seem like you are on track and have the skills.

 

The skills and the tools!

 

Looks like a fun project. Good luck and keep us posted!

 

Looks great! Always loved the ‘37, keep it coming!


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...nice save!...

 

any progress?

 

wow.. man you got guts! thats so much work, how much is the chop?

 

I like it very nice work

 

Nice

 

I’m not a fan of mid thirties chopped sedans, to me they look squashed. Save time and leave it alone. Sorry just my two cents.

 

It has been awhile since I updated my 37 build. I’ve been working pretty steady on it. Body is about 80% done. Took a break on it to start on the chassis. It’s almost done. Pretty stock except juice breaks, drop axle, sway bar kit and tube shocks. 8BA with 59 heads is done ready to go in.
Pictures are pretty close to where it’s at today.
I did change the rear end ratio to a 3.54.

to

That was my original plan but when I got into it and saw how much of the body and frame were needing replacement I changed my plan. I do have a 39 deluxe that is original except for the 40 style hubs and drums.