Posted by Dave Jensen on January 04, 2000 at 01:29:36:
In Reply to: where to start on a frame up posted by Dan on January 04, 2000 at 00:13:39:
Dan...I don't want to discourage you if you're determined to do this, but since you're asking, here's my two bits: The modifications you're describing are a lot of work and expense. It will be a real mess if you can't finish it. For your first resto...think stock. Even rough, your truck is a great work truck as it is. I have a stock '56 WM300 (C-4) and I use it a lot. It is slow, but as long as I don't have to take it on the freeway for very long, it gets the job done bone stock. It was rusty when I got it so I pulled the sheet metal and undercoated it right away. Then I worked on the engine, drive train, etc. The truck can pulled apart easily, particularly the front clip, because the sheet metal has fresh, clean fasteners. I also have a M-37 with a 318 and it's very powerful, but slow too. The stock low gearing is there for a reason, it lets you crawl and that's what makes these old rigs so neat...they are strong and steady STOCK. I can understand the desire for a more powerful engine and alternative fuels are cool too maybe, but if you swap everything but the frame and sheet metal, you're going to end up with an uncomfortable truck that is no better than the newer donor vehicle(s). I suggest two options. One, get a '60s to early 70's Dodge, Int'l, Ford, Whatever and build on that. Those new components will fit SO much easier and there's so much more room to work. The end product will be cheaper in time and money and will handle and haul better at higher speeds. If you in love with those old-time looks, think seriously about using '40s-'60s truck sheetmetal on a newer chasis, or with newer compoments. I have bought a lot of nice 2wd '40s Dodges and Int'ls recently for less than $500 each. If you are throwing away all the Power Wagon except the skin, you might as well modify a less useful, less historic, vehicle than your WM300. Just my opinion. Good Luck on your project. DJ