substitute frame

[Deleted User]
[Deleted User]
edited November -1 in HUDSON
OK, I'm going back and forth between restore and rod. I heard a while back that a certain year and body style cheverolet S-10 pickup frame would fit with little mods. Anyone have any input on this?

Comments

  • Browniepetersen
    Browniepetersen Senior Contributor
    Chevy S-10 Frames are becoming as popular as the small block Chevy engines were and still are. The draw for the S-10 frame is in that the front end is what all the hot rodders want with the Coil over and disc brakes and it is set up for the bigger engines and the frame is already boxed. It cuts down on a lot of work. The key to the one you need is the wheel base that you have. I know for the 39 that I was doing we picked up a "running" 86 Long Bed. Wheel base and rail to rail width was the same as the Hudson. This is a case where you have to do your homework.

    Also, keep in mind that with any modification of this level there is always the unplanned modifications that require the engineering and work to complete. But, in my opinion, it is a good way to go.
  • Aaron D. IL
    Aaron D. IL Senior Contributor
    I can't speak to rodding but I can tell you the S-10 rides like a truck...which is to say not comfortable at all. But I don't know how you stack that against the ride of a 70+ year old car.
  • TwinH
    TwinH Senior Contributor
    I have built/modified/raced cars for over 35 yrs. now and am a hot rodder at heart.
    That said, my 30 Essex coupe will be restored to as original as I can make it. A chassis swap should not be taken lightly as it creates as many if not more problems than it solves. CL,Ebay and the local swapmeets are littered with poorly executed builds that turn into basketcases that rodders and restorers view as nothing more than
    parts cars. Keep in mind that the Essex frame is really a decent piece and was popular
    (when they were plentiful)as a basis to build a race car around. NOW is the time though to thoroughly consider wants-vs-needs-vs abilities-vs-budget-vs-commitment etc. etc.
    When this all shakes out HAVE FUN creating YOUR vision of gramps Essex.

    Oh,and keep me in mind for the spare bits if you decide to rod it...:)
  • Browniepetersen
    Browniepetersen Senior Contributor
    Spare Parts: That reminds me that I need Essex 4 bolt wire wheels.... if you are getting rid of any....
This discussion has been closed.

Categories

In this Discussion