Thread: 1951 Ford F1 Rat Rod Truck

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The roof section didn't quite line up with the lower posts so I made a relief cut in the upper corners to spread the upper posts to match the lower. I also had to cut a relief cut to widen the post a bit.





I actually had to split the post 4 ways to get it to fit

After I got the front lined up and tacked into place I cut the doors and then the rear roof section. I removed 4" from underneath the rear window to lower it.






I still need to trim a little of the rear for things line up better. I can use the piece I removed from under the window for the section on the roof. I just mocked up the rear section for now.





I think it looks great. Not bad for a first timer and a days work. It was very intimidating at first but after I got started it was all that difficult. So if any of you have reservations about doing a chop I'd encourage you to just go for it. Just make sure you do your planning, get Tex Smith's book on "How to Chop a Top", it's invaulable, measure 3 times then measure again before you make any cuts. It wasn't that hard. Not that I'm ready for that Mercury yet! But if you have basic metal working skills its doable!

Before


After


Still need to finish fitting the rear section, the section on the roof, the doors and finish up all the welds.

I trimmed up the rear section and tacked into place.



The sides didn't line up there was a gap of about 3/4".



Made some relief cuts above and below the cut to make everything come together.



Now I have a 2" gap in the roof to be filled.



Welded in the side rain gutter pieces. The pieces are from the A pillar with some modifications so the will fit.

I welded the strip in the roof. and removed all the bracing inside. Finished up some of the welding and slap so Bondo on to how it will look.






door frames cut and fitted. Still have tons of welding and grinding to do.





Threw the seat out of 50 Stude in to see if it will fit. It will needs a few modification but will work just fine. I'll need to go to "Old Town" and get some upholstery material (Mexican blankets).

Used some 16 gauge and the bead roller for the floor.

Got a free Chevy bed from a friend. Cut it down to 46" and welded it back together.

Tearing it apart after mock-up and painting the frame.