Originally posted by jaguarsurfer:
Is it just easier to mount everything on a modern frame?
I think you are right that its hard to make it look right on a modern frame. Might be worth trying it though.
Most newer trucks have wider track width. I've seen guys swap the IFS from a '63 to '87 pickup under something like the panel. Starting in '71 disk brakes are available. Starting in '72 they are all disk. Problem is the track is too wide, and even if its narrowed you may have trouble finding wheels that fit and look right.
Its probably easier to fit a newer axle under the rear. I have a 1-ton with a 14-bolt Chevy rear under it. That type of swap should not be too hard to pull off.
On the other hand the same basic rear the panel has now (if its original) was used up until '71 or '72. Gears more compatible with modern high way speeds can be found, and I wonder if the brakes from a later 1-ton might be an improvement over the '51? I don't know if you can even swap them. I know upgrading huck brakes to bendix poses some problems that are easiest to solve by swapping housings. This might be a similar situation.
The frame on a 1-ton is seven inches tall between the axles and is made of 1/4-inch steel. I'm not an engineer and won't say if that's stout enough or not. It does look very similar to what is under my '89 1-ton, but that truck is only rated at 9,000 lbs and would also be challenged by your trailer.
Scott is correct that the last bit of frame on that panel (and my '50 1-ton flatbed) is wimpy stuff just there to mount a bumper. Frame modifications might be required to mount an adequate hitch.
What kind of hitch is on your trailer? What is the tongue weight and ball size?
I mentioned my 1-ton flatbed. I have a 500 Cadillac/Turbo 400 I plan to put in that truck, and then I want to mount a utility box on the rear and use this truck as my primary tow vehicle. If I understand the rules correctly pulling a trailer over 10,000 GVWR requirest that the driver have a commercial license, so most my planning has been to come in at 9,990 on the trailer.
In addition to the original 1-ton frame (I have two of those) I also have a '72 3/4-ton frame in the yard for comparison. That frame is not as flat across the top as the '50 frame. While taht won't stop you from mounting the body, it would mean more complicated bracket building. And of course the 3/4-ton wheel base is only 127 inches, so it would be too short under a panel (though until now I'd not thought of trying it).
The panel body complicates things because its harder to pull a gooseneck, but otherwise we may have some very similar challenges here.
