Thread: Way over my head with a DT466 Diesel

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I think you will have contradictory features here.....a frame cross section strong enough to hold a 1700 lb engine/trans will be pretty thick (tall). A 31 Buick had a straight eight (I think) but the frame was not anywhere near as massive as needed. The engine torque will also suggest a stout frame. Supposing you are going full-fendered, you have some limits as to what will fit under there......and how much underhood volume you have vs the engine size. I think you have a significant challenge getting the look right.....it cannot look like a 31 Buick on a semi truck frame.

You are probably on the right track to look for axles and other components from vehicles with similar weight engines. A Mustang II front end it way too wimpy......as is a late model independent suspension.

You need to take some measurements and get someone to do a drawing or CAD representation. You should also do some basic calculations regarding the minimum frame strength that you need.....you might get away with a boxed 6" tall rail with a third vertical plate....like two sections of 2.5 x 6 rectangular tubes welded together to make a 5 x 6 tall box....that would give you four vertical sections....OR maybe a really thick wall tube.

We have had good luck with having a CAD file laser cut for frame sides. To those, we weld the top and bottom straps to make the boxed frame. This way, the frame doesnt look like a straight tube.....it can match the original frame but be scaled larger and thicker.

Thinking about a 31 Buick...is the original frame wide enough for the engine and tranny? You probably are not going to get a wider frame to fit under the existing sheet metal......another problem.

Good luck with the project

mike in tucson

Thanks Mike,
The frame that is in there right now is an un-boxed one that measures 2.5 x 6. I am told it is from a 30's heavy duty truck, but I have no idea if that is A) in fact - true and B) what kind of truck. It appears, aside from the lack of boxing to be stout indeed. It has created some cabin space issues, but I think I can work around that. The engine itself will fit between the rails and the placement of the mounts should work out okay. Length wise it will have to be modified up front to allow for the engine to fit properly.

I have two questions for you: Do you think I can narrow a heavy duty I-beam from say a 4700 series International? I ...think...they are forged, but they may be cast
The track width from something like that will be just too wide otherwise

Second You mentioned you have had a frame laser cut. Do you design them? I am trying to find a professional to tackle this part. I can only do so much with my resources and skill and realize I will have to pay a pro for some things.

-Al