Should I get an extra frame?
 

I've got a complete '50 truck but I am a big fan of efficiency (lazy) and space is limited with a 3 car garage. There is an extra frame locally for next to nothing, I was thinking about bringing it home and starting with it first. I wouldn't have to have a truck blown all apart in my garage and yard and when the frame is done I could just swap the body over. Plus I'm sure the frame would fit in the garage now. Anybody done this? What are the advantages/disadvantages?

Re: Should I get an extra frame?
 

Advantage: Easy restoration like you stated.

Disadvantage: Frame and body VIN numbers won't match.

Re: Should I get an extra frame?
 

I'm not sure there are any #'s on the AD frames?

Re: Should I get an extra frame?
 

I'd do the extra frame!

Re: Should I get an extra frame?
 

Does that frame still have the front axle on it? They're worth a few dollars to anyone building a fenderless rat rod.

Re: Should I get an extra frame?
 

The axle is off but he's got a whole stack to choose from, maybe I should buy them. Does anybody know how much are good doors and fenders worth?

Re: Should I get an extra frame?
 

The only numbers on a '50 are on the serial number plate in the driver's door opening. There are none on the frame or any other part or at least GM didn't put them anywhere else.

My '54 GMC project is based on a frame swap. I'm doing all my modifications on one frame while all the sheet metal still sets on the original frame. With a little fussing the sheet metal donor is still driver enough to be moved around the yard so its handy this way.

Cabs and beds that have been separated from the frame and running gear are harder to move around. I have one setting on my trailer right now because I can't decide where it should be stored long term.

Re: Should I get an extra frame?
 

Same here, except with 57's

http://i30.photobucket.com/albums/c3...C/P1240001.jpg

Re: Should I get an extra frame?
 

That was my choice and it worked out great, until I started cleaning things and from there it got wAY OUT OF LINE!!!

Re: Should I get an extra frame?
 

Ok, so I decided to go get the frame. I looked at mine again and it is solid but has heavy pitting which I hate. His frame is in better shape.

So does anybody local want to tag along or need fenders, doors, axles, hoods, a cab, core supports etc..? He's got a barn full, probably 10 trucks parted and stacked. Cheap, too.

Re: Should I get an extra frame?
 

See if he can load them up and bring them up here and I'll go with you. Dang it!