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Technical X Crossmember Options For Stock Model A Frame !

Discussion in 'Traditional Hot Rods' started by chev34ute, Dec 3, 2018.

  1. chev34ute
    Joined: Nov 13, 2011
    Posts: 1,240

    chev34ute
    Member

    Hey Guys.
    I have seen a couple of images of 35 to 48 Ford X crossmembers being added into 32 frames, I would like to do the same to my Model A frame. I am just wondering if anyone has done this ? I am keen to see some images.
     
    Hurley50 likes this.
  2. You can use a 35-48, need to trim it a little. I couldn't find one local and used a Dagel X member.
     
    chev34ute likes this.
  3. mgtstumpy
    Joined: Jul 20, 2006
    Posts: 9,214

    mgtstumpy
    Member

    Here's a 32 style X-member
    2016-03-04 16.30.33_zpsvszbgn0z.jpg

    Then there's this Dagel kit
    [​IMG]

    This is a HAMBERS with a 36 X-member
    [​IMG]

    Or this?
    [​IMG]

    Here's a transmission mount
    bbbb.jpg
     
  4. chev34ute
    Joined: Nov 13, 2011
    Posts: 1,240

    chev34ute
    Member

    All look very impressive.
     

  5. Phil P
    Joined: Jan 1, 2018
    Posts: 495

    Phil P
    ALLIANCE MEMBER

    That's the great thing about being here, I was pondering this very question before bed last night and here's a thread on the topic. Additionally I'm thinking of boxing my frame, for a low HP car (283) is a k member a necessity or just a good idea. Or can you choose one or the other. Phil
     
  6. grdra1
    Joined: May 20, 2013
    Posts: 527

    grdra1
    Member

    This is mine. Glen P6220462.JPG P7040499.JPG
     
  7. chev34ute
    Joined: Nov 13, 2011
    Posts: 1,240

    chev34ute
    Member

    It certainly is because our state department of transport has very strict rules regarding the construction or modification of frames, right down to the thickness of the metal used, the type of welding, and the need to use transmission tunnels and boxing for side rails. All of this makes building a traditional rod harder. Thier long term goal is no doubt to legislate early rods off the road, so anything I construct will need to meet these strict guidelines.
     
  8. akoutlaw
    Joined: May 13, 2010
    Posts: 1,265

    akoutlaw
    Member

    I used SoCal tublar K members because I felt that they gave me more space for routing exhaust & the other necessities.
     

    Attached Files:

    Blues4U and mgtstumpy like this.
  9. Mr T body
    Joined: Nov 2, 2005
    Posts: 2,227

    Mr T body
    Alliance Vendor
    from BHC AZ

    In my '31 build there really wasn't any reason to drastically modify the stock frame. Modify and box the stock x-member, box the rails and put some thought into where to put bracing. Holds up well to a 5.0 HO motor with no chassis flex.
    [​IMG]
     
  10. pitman
    Joined: May 14, 2006
    Posts: 5,148

    pitman

    Often made them, using .14 wall 2x4 rect tube.
     
  11. Atwater Mike
    Joined: May 31, 2002
    Posts: 11,624

    Atwater Mike
    Member

    In a Model A frame, (usually boxed) I've used the 'K' member,
    A) Round tubing, 1.5" dia., .095" wall.
    B) rectangular tubing, 1.5" X 4", .095" wall.
    C) Fabricated braked sheet, .187" thick, 1.5" X 4" channel legs.

    'C' design is basically a '32 center member, braked and welded to close spec.

    Scale 52"-60" wingspan Control line airplanes were harder than this... all bulkhead, stringer, and rib inclusive...Hand cut, and plans hand drawn...Some of us 'die hard'!
     
  12. Aaron D.
    Joined: Oct 27, 2015
    Posts: 1,037

    Aaron D.
    Member

    I put a 39 X member into my stock model A frame. It took a ton of work, but it does stiffen the frame well.
     
    Blues4U, Tim, 48fordnut and 1 other person like this.
  13. UGOTBIT
    Joined: Nov 18, 2019
    Posts: 28

    UGOTBIT
    Member
    from Upstate NY

    I know this is an old thread, but does anyone know if anyone offers the 32 K member rear leg braces in a Model A frame like these that mgtstumpy posted?

    My workspace is, well, not as nicely equipped as the one pictured. chassis with 32K and brace.jpg
     
    chev34ute likes this.
  14. UGOTBIT
    Joined: Nov 18, 2019
    Posts: 28

    UGOTBIT
    Member
    from Upstate NY

    Last edited: Sep 5, 2020
  15. Benny28
    Joined: May 15, 2019
    Posts: 20

    Benny28
    Member
    from Australia

    IMG_1248.JPG

    This is what I came up with using my original cross member still tossing up weather to brace it


    Sent from my iPhone using The H.A.M.B. mobile app
     
    sloppy jalopies and chev34ute like this.
  16. Aaron D.
    Joined: Oct 27, 2015
    Posts: 1,037

    Aaron D.
    Member

    Looks nice Benny.
     
  17. sloppy jalopies
    Joined: Jun 29, 2015
    Posts: 5,256

    sloppy jalopies
    Member

    Yes on the K member as it adds a ton of strength to the crossmember...
    the pedals want to twist the x member forward...
    the left K member really helps re-enforce the crossmember against that twist...
    if I box my '32 frame it will be about 8" fore and 8" aft of the firewall and about 24" from the flat of the rail up and to the apex of the kick...
     
    chev34ute likes this.
  18. dsiddons
    Joined: Mar 6, 2006
    Posts: 1,542

    dsiddons
    Member
    from Indiana

    IMG_9141.JPG


    Sent from my iPhone using H.A.M.B.
     

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