30+ year dream

Hey Guys,

Just wanted to say hello and introduce myself. My father and I have recently started on a project that has been in the works for 30+ years. He's been packing around a 1937 Ford Cabriolet (in pieces) for around 32 years. This has been a long time dream for him and I am going to make it happen if its the last thing I do, lol.

We need some advice on where to start. We have a 38 Ford frame with no cross member. It has one bad spot that has rusted right through and some small pitting all over. Is it worth it fix the spot, box it and hope the frame is still strong enough? Or should we try and source a different frame that is in better condition? If so, does anyone know where we can source a 35-40 Ford frame? LOL. Preferably used. I've been quoted $4400 CDN for a new boxed frame with the cross member. Is that a solid price? We would really like to go with a less expensive frame, but we don't want to skimp on strength and quality.

We also have access to a Ford 9” rear end or a Jag rear end. What do you guys think would be better?

We currently have a 383 stroker that needs a re-build or we have a good ol' 350. Any suggestions on the two?

The only other thing we've decided on is Air Bag suspension. We are really looking for any suggestion you guys may have. Hoping your experience can help point us in the right direction.

Cheers,
Nick

PS. Oh and thanks for bearing with me as I am a new gear head. My father knows a lot more, but unfortunately is computer inept.

Jag rearends are not particularly strong. A Ford 9" is. Jag rearends are pretty when all the working parts are visible, as on a roadster, but on a 37, it wouldn't be very visible anyways. The frame-----take it to a sandblaster, have it cleaned down to white metal, then assess it. There was a lot of meat on those old frames to begin with, and one bad spot is easily repaired. Boxing it will give all the strength you will require, unless it comes back from the blaster as tissue paper. $4400 will buy a lot of other things that you will need.

I'll guess your rusted out spot is on the top of the rail just as it kicks up to go over the rear axle. Repairable, but read on.

If you're missing the X member then you might as well look for another frame. They're available all the time in the neighborhood of $1-3000 dollars, rolling, depending on condition. Ebay often has them listed as an example. Also check with your local chapter of the Early Ford V8 Club. Visit a free classified site called www.fordbarn.com ,new listings there all the time, and you can post a wanted ad for yourself.

For a convertible you need extra rigidity. On my '36 roadster we added some boxing plates on the side rails, and on the X member legs (with openings to facilitate exhaust routing), and then welded in box section (1x2) tubing to replace the riveted supports that are near mid frame. Personally I would go with the 9" just because it's simpler and less costly in long term maint. than the Jag. Figure out who's air bag system you prefer and modify the frame according to their instructions. I would strongly suggest Heidt's........hard to beat for quality.