Some quick measuring and figuring on my AD 6400.
Rear frame width is 36", 2" more then the current standard of 34"
Front frame is tapered, and I could see just barley getting an engine to fit if it were 24" and parallel. So, the Freightliner suspension could theoretically be narrowed 10", wheel surface to wheel surface would shrink to 87" and that's still around 10" to wide for an AD truck.
So, to fit an AD truck it could be narrowed until the frame rails were a box, touching each other, that leaves no room for an engine. So, a COE could work, engine completely behind the front suspension, and partly under the bed. I don't think that's a good idea..
So, to use the independent front a larger truck is needed, obviously the ideal project truck will have a front wheel mounting surface measurement of 97". If narrower, then only 6", possibly 8" would leave room for an engine.
I can't think of a good truck for this? possibly a GMC Cannonball, what's the front wheel mounting surface measurement on one of those?
When I am ready for a new project (many many years form now) I think it will be a late 40's Autocar single axle with a Cummins NHS (supercharged) probably an original restoration, or pretty close to it. This independent front would look wrong in that truck...
So, I still want to play with one, anyone have a project it fits, can find/buy the new front axle, and wants to pay me to make it happen?
Grigg
