Hey guys, I'm working on a 57 Ford Custom gasser project and am curious exactly how beefy i need to go with the front frame rails and front cross tube. I've seen some guys use 2x4 and others user 2x3 for the frame rails I'm assuming about 1/8' thick or so?? Also what about bar across the front? Would this be same dimension as a roll bar 1 5/8 x .113? Or larger? Thanks for input.
If I used 2"x4" I think 1/8" would be fine. But if it was 2"x3" I'd go to heavier 3/16" wall. I use one 1.5" tube at the ends of the frame horn, and a 2nd at the motor mounts. .125" or .113", either is fine. That's plenty strong.
What's the goals, big wheelies or really fast or just a street brawler driving over rough roads at times ? That's a big car and if wheelies or rough roads are in the future then go 2x4 .125 wall, if lightweight for fast times the go 2x3 .125 wall.
Also measure your stock frame at the point where you want to slice it off and add the stub, see which it will accommodate better.
Is it necessary to tie the new frame rails back into the firewall or roll bar? Will it be strong enough without the strut bars?
Ben when you set the new framerails level, what will be your reference point? Firewall? frame under the front seat?
My Henry J frame. 3X4 rails with 2X4 crossmember. All 1/8 wall. Overkill, but available and cheap. Gary
I used 3/16 2.5x3.5 on my Henry J because like Swade said above it fit inside the original frame nicely
Nice Marty! What was the spring perch width,Do you remember?Any more assembled Pics?Sorry to Hijack Thread..
I have been having a little trouble finding the perfect spot to level everything. I have it leveled now using the flat part of the frame under the front seats. Any other recommendations? Sent from my iPhone using The H.A.M.B. mobile app
Rod, don't remember the perch width, it was 9 years ago. This is best assembled shot I have, with the owners.
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