Hotrod frame swap.

[Richard Larson]

I would live some input on using a Ranger chassis under a 1950 Ford shoebox, custom club coupe 2dr. The wheelbase and track width are very close, and I can modify if needed. I have settled on the 98 and up for the independent front suspension. I have seen lots of s-10 swaps but I want the Ford to be all Ford and I know I can mount a small block 302 in the ranger chassis to save the flathead for a track T build. Is there anything about the chassis strength I should be concerned with. Has anyone done a similar swap? Thanks.

 

[SenorNoob]

I can't imagine that body being any heavier than the loads a Ranger is rated for. Especially when you factor in that Ranger body is removed.

 

[Blmpkn]

Go for it.

Years back my buddy had some sort of late 40s Pontiac (silver streak?) that was cobbled onto a ranger frame. Thing was pretty sweet.

Swaps onto the s chassis trucks are more common because theyre slightly easier to dump v8 stuff into.

 

[Curious Hound]

Sounds like a fun project. Would love to see it completed.

 

[19Walt93]

We'll need pictures. I like the idea of using the Ranger chassis to get better brakes, suspension and steering.
When my daughter was in college I had an opportunity to buy a 49/50 club coupe that wasn't rusty(rare in New England) for $4000 but didn't think I should spend the money at the time.

 

[JoshT]

Love the idea. I often have ideas bouncing around in my head of what to do with a spare RC/SB first gen frame. Some sort of hot rod body swap build has definitely popped up in there.

 

[Richard Larson]

I can't imagine that body being any heavier than the loads a Ranger is rated for. Especially when you factor in that Ranger body is removed.

I have the same thought, The chassis on the 50 is HUGE and the front suspension with its king pin steering on control arms is pretty weird. With the suspension options available for the Ranger it should ride like a dream.

 

[Richard Larson]

We'll need pictures. I like the idea of using the Ranger chassis to get better brakes, suspension and steering.
When my daughter was in college I had an opportunity to buy a 49/50 club coupe that wasn't rusty(rare in New England) for $4000 but didn't think I should spend the money at the time.

An aftermarket chassis is thousands $ and the wait time is nuts. I'm thinking 5 grand or less for a complete non-runner and I can sell the body and other parts to offset the cost. I'll get, like you said, steering, suspension and brakes plus lots of sundry things like brake lines, fuel lines, booster and master cylinder gas tank, etc. plus replacement parts are as close as the local parts store.