Thread: Are all Model A chassis the same?

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The Model A frame is generally the weakest, because it's a simple ladder. Even the aftermarket "A" frames are hard to stiffen without a roll cage, although it can be done. The '32 and 33/34 frames can be made race-car stiff with the proper X-member - either round or rectangular tubing.

However, if you intend to make the car extremely low by channelling the body over the frame, it gets a little more difficult. Large X-members tend to eat into floor space.

Take a look at some of the example frames at:

http://www.peteandjakes.com in the parts section.

You can see how much more robust the X-member is in the 32 - 34 series than in the A series.

I had a Model A with a 454, toploader and 4.10 rear axle. I had to watch the throttle because of all the torque on the frame and body. If I hit it hard, it would pick up the left front tire. Once, there was enough traction that the torque on the frame/body jammed the door into the sill and chipped the paint. If the body had been glass instead of steel, I probably would have cracked it.