Thread: Starting it early, 41 ford PU

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This is my first build. I am 24 years old, i know i have a helluva lot of work ahead of me on this. I know this will take a "few" years to "finish" lol. But here is my story...

My fiance's cousin was selling a 1941 half ton Ford pick up (hence the user name) After his dad passed it was too big of a project to take on. As of right now the only major things that are missing would be the hood, grille, and radiator. He said it has two sets of front and rear fenders. Just at a glance i noticed floor pans are in need of being replaced. Not too sure on the cab corners yet. I will be driving up to see it again this weekend and sign a bill of sale. He also said it will be coming with a flathead v8 and trans. He isnt too sure on what the trans is, (i am assuming stock).

So my dream for this truck. I would like to make this truck into a street rod. Nothing too fancy or "pretty", but looks nice. And i want some POWER!!! but not where i am going to be running 8 second 1/4 miles. I want it to be a driver. Something that if i wanted to hook my jetski trailer to it and drive across the state, i wouldn't think twice.

First question, what are yall doin to the flat heads to pull some more power out of them? (i am sure the year of the motor will also weigh in on this)

second, What Transmission would you reccomend with the motor? (i know preference varies person to person. I would like something where i can cruise at 70mph and maybe about 2k rpm or less)

third, Assuming this is a virgin truck, i would like power steering, disc brakes and the independent suspension in the front. Any pointers on doing a front end swap? What year of what car?

fourth, Rear end... i do not want the rear axle to blow out on me, what would be a mild gearing (fun but still highway driveable) with a newer rear end, and suspension set up? I am assuming most will say fourlink, but that seems like it will be very stiff. again, i want a nice ride that i can cruise in, but still play when i pull up next to a mustang or something. I just dont want to be fighting the axle bouncing on me.

VVVV only pic ive got so far